Albuterol

Albuterol is a drug for the relief of Bronchospasm in adults and children 6 years of age and older with asthma and other reversible obstructive airway diseases. Albuterol stimulates Beta2-adrenergic receptors which are the predominant receptors in bronchial smooth muscle, leading to their relaxation.

Albuterol is available as a tablet containing either Albuterol sulfate 2 milligram or Albuterol sulfate 4 milligram. This drug may also be available in extended-release form tablets and in syrup form. It is also available as an aerosol spray containing Albuterol 90 microgram in 1 inhalation. The aerosol spray canister contains 200 metered inhalations.

Instructions

You should read the product information leaflet before using this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Albuterol tablets should be taken by mouth as instructed by your doctor. Do not crush or chew the drug because it may diminish its effects. This medication should be taken with a full glass of water unless your doctor tells you otherwise. You should swallow the drug whole. The usual dose is 3 to 4 times a day.

Your dosage is based on your medical condition and the way you will respond to treatment. Take this drug regularly to experience the most benefits. You should also take this drug at the same time each day.

For Albuterol syrup, the dose should be measured using a medication-measuring device or spoon. Do not use a household spoon.

Albuterol aerosol spray should be given at a recommended dose of 2 inhalations repeated every 4 to 6 hours or depending on doctor’s instructions. The usual dose for maintenance therapy is 2 inhalations, 4 times a day.

Albuterol inhalation solution is given through a nebulizer. The dose is to be determined by your doctor.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Continue to use it as prescribed by your doctor or as stated on the package label.

This does not apply for Albuterol inhalation solution.

Interactions

Albuterol may interact with medications such as:

• Other oral sympathomimetic agents
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors or Tricyclic Antidepressants
• Beta-Blockers such as Propranolol or Metoprolol
• Loop or thiazide diuretics
• Digoxin

Side Effects

There are no side effects known aside from a possible allergic reaction in people who have previous or unknown hypersensitivity to the drug.

Watch out for signs of allergic reactions such as:

• Rash
• Itching
• Swelling

Warnings

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have the following:

• Allergy to Albuterol and to similar drugs such as metaproterenol and terbutaline
• Heart problems such as irregular heartbeat, angina and heart attack
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Seizure
• Pregnancy and Lactation