albuterol (Inhalation)

Name of the generic: Albuterol
The class of drug: Adrenergic bronchodilators

Brands names

Accuneb
ProAir Digihaler
ProAir HFA
Proair Respiclick
Proventil
Proventil HFA
ReliOn Ventolin HFA
Ventolin
Ventolin HFA

In Canada

Alti-Salbutamol Inhalation Aerosol
Apo-Salvent
Salbutamol
Salbutamol Nebuamp
Salbutamol Respirator Solution
Ventolin Inhaler
Ventolin Nebules P.F.
Ventolin Respirator
Ventolin Rotacaps

Available Dosage Forms:

Aerosol Powder
Powder
Solution
Suspension

Therapeutic Class: Bronchodilator

Pharmacologic Class: Beta-2 Adrenergic Agonist

Uses for Albuterol

Albuterol

Albuterol helps treat or stop bronchospasm for people suffering from asthma, emphysema, bronchitis and various lung diseases. Albuterol is also used to stop bronchospasms due to exercise.

Albuterol is part of the family of drugs called adrenergic bronchodilators. Adrenergic bronchodilators are inhaled through the mouth to widen the bronchial tube (air passages) in the lungs. They ease wheezing, cough and difficulty breathing because they increase the airflow through the bronchial tube.¶

This medication is only available upon prescription by your doctor.

Before using Albuterol

When deciding whether to take a medication, the potential risks of using the medication should be evaluated against the positive effects it could bring. This is a decision that you and your physician will take. To determine the appropriate medicine to be considered, the following factors should be taken into consideration:

Allergies

Discuss with your physician whether you’ve had an unusual or unrelated reaction to this medication or any other medications. Inform your health care specialist if you suffer from any other allergies, like to dyes, foods or preservatives. You may also be allergic to animals. For non-prescription medications, review the label or the ingredient list carefully.

Pediatric

The most appropriate studies up to now haven’t revealed specific problems for children that could hinder the effectiveness of ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM), ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM), ProAir(r) HFA, ProAir(r) Respiclick(r), Proventil(r) HFA, and Ventolin(r) HFA in children 4 years old or older and Albuterol (r) in children aged 2 years old or older. However, safety and effectiveness are not known in the case of ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM), ProAir(r) HFA, ProAir(r) Respiclick(r), Proventil(r) HFA, and Ventolin(r) HFA in children younger than 4 years old and Albuterol (r) for children less than 2 years old. of age.

Geriatric

No appropriate studies have been conducted to determine the connection between age and the effect of Proventil(r) HFA in the ageing population. However, patients who are elderly tend to develop heart issues that are related to age, which could require caution when determining the dosage for those taking Proventil(r) HFA.

The studies that have been conducted up to now haven’t revealed specific geriatric issues that could restrict the use for ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM), ProAir(r) HFA, ProAir(r) Respiclick(r), and Ventolin(r) HFA in elderly patients. However, older patients tend to suffer from age-related kidney, heart or liver issues that may warrant caution and adjustments to the dosage for patients taking ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM), ProAir(r) HFA, ProAir(r) Respiclick(r), and Ventolin(r) HFA.

There isn’t any information on the connection between age and the adverse effects of albuterol inhalation solutions (eg, Albuterol (r)) in geriatric patients.

Breastfeeding

There are no studies that are sufficient of women that can determine the risks to babies when using this medication while breastfeeding. Be sure to weigh the potential benefits against the risks that could be associated with using this medication during nursing.

Interactions with medications

While certain medications should not be combined in any way In other instances, two medicines can be combined even though there is a chance of interaction. In these situations, the doctor may decide to alter the dosage or make other precautions required. When you’re taking this medication it is essential that you inform your healthcare provider whether you’re using any one of these drugs that are listed below. The following interactions were chosen based on their potential importance and may not be all-inclusive.

Utilizing this medicine in conjunction together with any of the following medications is generally not advised, but could be required in certain instances. If two medicines are prescribed at the same time the doctor could alter the dosage or the frequency you take one or both of the drugs.

Acebutolol
Amineptine
Amitriptyline
Amitriptylinoxide
Amoxapine
Arotinolol
Atenolol
Atomoxetine
Befunolol
Betaxolol
Bevantolol
Bisoprolol
Bopindolol
Bucindolol
Bupranolol
Carteolol
Carvedilol
Celiprolol
Clomipramine
Desipramine
Dibenzepin
Dilevalol
Doxepin
Esmolol
Imipramine
Iobenguane I 123
Labetalol
Landiolol
Levalbuterol
Levobunolol
Lofepramine
Melitracen
Mepindolol
Methacholine
Metipranolol
Metoprolol
Nadolol
Nebivolol
Nortriptyline
Opipramol
Oxprenolol
Penbutolol
Pindolol
Practolol
Propranolol
Protriptyline
Sotalol
Talinolol
Tertatolol
Tianeptine
Timolol
Trimipramine

Utilizing this medicine in conjunction together with the following drugs could cause an increased risk of some adverse reactions, however, having both medicines in combination could be the best option for you. If you have been prescribed both medications by your doctor, they could alter the dose or frequency of use of one or both medications.

Digoxin

Interactions with food, tobacco and alcohol

Certain medications shouldn’t be used during or near the time of having food items or eating particular kinds of food, as interactions can happen. Smoking or drinking alcohol in conjunction together with certain medications can result in interactions. Discuss with your physician the interactions of your medication in conjunction with alcohol, food or tobacco.

Other medical conditions

The presence of any other medical conditions could affect the usage of this medication. It is important to inform your doctor if there are any other medical issues including:

Allergies to milk proteins or past or–ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM) as well as ProAir(r) Respiclick(r) shouldn’t be used by patients suffering from this condition.

Diabetes or
Blood vessel diseases or heart disease (eg coronary insufficiency,) or
Heart rhythm problems (eg, arrhythmia, QT prolongation) or
Hypertension (high blood pressure) or
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or
Hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood) or
ketoacidosis (high ketones in blood) or
Seizures, past history of– Use with care. It could make the condition more serious.

Kidney disease – Use with care. The effect may be heightened due to the slower elimination of the medication in the human body.

Proper use of Albuterol

This section will provide information about the correct use of several Albuterol-containing products. It might not be applicable to Albuterol . Take care when reading.

Use this medication only in accordance with the instructions of your physician. Do not take more than it and avoid using it more frequently than what your doctor has prescribed. Also, don’t stop taking this medication or any other asthma medication without consulting your physician. This could increase the risk of breathing problems.

This albuterol-based inhalation solution (eg, Albuterol (r)) is best used in conjunction with the use of a jet nebulizer linked with an air compressor that has an airflow that is good. The inhalation solution and the nebulizer comes with patient directions. Take note of these directions and follow them attentively. Talk to your doctor if have any concerns.

To utilize for the inhalation solution that is in the nebulizer:

Make use of a single container or mix the exact amount of solution with the dropper that is provided for each dose.
Inhalation solution should be placed in the medicine reservoir or the nebulizer cup that is on the machine.
Connect the nebulizer with the mouthpiece or face mask.
Use the face mask and mouthpiece to inhale the medication.
Utilize the nebulizer for approximately 5 – 15 mins or until the medicine contained in the cup of nebulizer is gone.
Clean all parts of the nebulizer following each use.

It is the albuterol-inhalation aerosol (eg, ProAir(r) HFA, Proventil(r) HFA, Ventolin(r) HFA) and albuterol inhalation powder (eg, ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM), ProAir(r) Respiclick(r)) are made with an inhaler, which comes with instructions. Be sure to read the instructions carefully prior to applying this medication. If your child or you does not understand the instructions or aren’t certain what to do with the inhaler, consult your physician to explain what you need to do. Additionally, you can ask your doctor to examine regularly how you and your child use the inhaler to ensure you’re using it in a safe manner.

To make use of the aerosol for inhalation:

The inhaler should be the temperature of the room before you use it.
Insert the metal canister securely and completely inside the actuator. The actuator shouldn’t be used with any other inhaled medications.
Take off the cap and inspect the mouthpiece, making sure that it is in good condition.
Make sure to keep the inhaler away from your face. Do not spray in your eyes. Shake the inhaler thoroughly and test the spray into the air 3 at a time with ProAir(r) HFA or 4 times for Proventil(r) HFA and Ventolin(r) HFA before using it for the first time, or if the inhaler is not been in use for more than 2 weeks.
To inhale the medicine, exhale fully and try to push as many air molecules out of your lungs as is possible. Place the mouthpiece to the side of your mouth and hold the canister on its side.
Breathe your mouth into it slowly, deeply (like the sound of yawning) then simultaneously press your finger down onto the cube’s top.
Keep your breath in for approximately 10 seconds, and then take a deep breath and exhale slowly.
If you’re supposed to take multiple puffs, allow one minute before inhaling your second puff. Repeat the procedures for the next puff beginning by shaking the device.
After you’ve finished all your doses clean your mouth with water and then spit your mouth water.
Clean the mouthpiece on the inhaler every week at least by running it under warm waters for about 30 secs and then dry it with air.
If you must apply the inhaler to your face before it has completely dried shake off the excess water, then replace the canister and spray it two times to keep it away from your face. Use your regular dose.
After you have used the inhaler, rinse the mouthpiece once more and dry it thoroughly.
If the mouthpiece gets blockage, washing the mouthpiece may aid.
Its Proventil(r) HFA inhaler has an LCD that shows the number of doses left. It will let you know that you’re running low on medication. The counter’s counter will light up red when there are just 20 doses left. It will remind you to fill your prescription.

To make use of inhalation powder: Inhalation Powder:

Inhale the inhaler using the pouch made of foil before you begin using your first inhaler.
The inhaler can provide around 200 inhalations. The counter for doses will change from red to green when “20” doses remain. Consult your physician or pharmacist to request a refill of your medication or prescription.
Be sure that the cap is shut before you use this medication. Don’t open the cap unless intend to use it.
Make sure to hold the inhaler straight as you release the cap completely until you hear “click”. The inhaler is now set to use.
Inhale this medication and take a deep breath and try to push as much air out of your lungs as is possible. Place the mouthpiece completely into your mouth. Close your lips around it.
Breathe in with your mouth as deep as you are able until you’ve had a full, deep breath.
Don’t block the vents over the mouthpiece using your fingers or lips.
Keep your breath in for approximately 10 seconds or until you are able to comfortably.
Take the inhaler out of your mouth and examine on the counter for doses to be sure you’ve received the medicine.
Cap tightly over the mouthpiece following the use of the inhaler. Always shut the cap following every use.
If you’re planning to take several puffs at once, follow those steps to take the next puff beginning by opening the cap completely.
Don’t make use of a spacer or volume holding chamber along with ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM).
Maintain the inhaler clean and dry throughout the day. Avoid washing or putting any of the components of the inhaler into water. Replace the ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM) in the event that it was cleaned or immersed in water.
If you want to wash the mouthpiece, clean it with a dry cloth tissue.

Dosing

The dosage of this medicine can differ depending on the patient. Follow the instructions of your physician or the instructions in the prescription. This information is the most common dose of this medication. If your dose differs you should not alter it unless your doctor instructs you to change it.

The quantity of medicine you consume is contingent on how strong the drug is. In addition, the number of doses you will take every day, the amount of time between doses and the duration of time that you are taking the medication will be contingent on the medical issue for which you’re taking the medication.

For inhalation aerosol dosage form (inhaler):
- To treat or prevent the bronchospasm
  - Children and adults 4 years old and older – Two puffs every 4 to 6 hours, as required.
  - Children who are younger than 4 years old – The dosage and dose should be decided by the doctor of your child.
- To avoid the occurrence of the bronchospasm that is caused by exercise:
  - Adults and children four years old and older – Two puffs between 15 and 30 minutes prior to exercising.
  - Children under 4 years old – The dosage and dosage should be determined by your child’s physician.
For inhalation powder dosage form (inhaler):
- To treat or prevent asthmatic bronchospasm
  - Adults and children four years old and older – Two puffs every 4 to 6 hours, as necessary.
  - Children under 4 years old – The dosage and dosage should be determined by your child’s physician.
- To prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm:
  - Children and adults 4 years of age or older. Two puffs between 15 and 30 minutes prior to exercise.
  - Children who are younger than 4 years old–The dosage and dosage must be decided by the doctor of your child.
To inhale solution dosage forms (used by the help of a Nebulizer):
- To prevent bronchospasm
  - Children and adults over 12 years age–2.5 milligrams (mg) in the nebulizer, 3 to 4 times per day, if needed.
  - Children 2-12 years old age–0.63 or 1.25 mg in the nasal spray three or 4 times daily depending on the need.
  - Children who are younger than 2 years old–Use and dosage must be determined by your child’s physician.

Missed dose

If you are missing a dose of this medicine be sure to take it as fast as you are able. If it’s nearing the time to take your next dose, avoid the missed dose and then go back to your usual dosage schedule. Don’t double dose your doses.

Storage

Place the medication in the pouch in foil till you’re ready to utilize it. Keep it at room temperature in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid freezing.

Keep unopened vials of this medication at room temperature, away from sunlight and heat. Avoid freezing. A medicine vial that is open should be used immediately.

Keep the medicine in a tightly sealed container that is kept at room temperature and away from moisture, heat and sunlight. Avoid the medicine from freezing.

Keep your items out of children’s reach.

Don’t keep old medicine or medicines that are no longer required.

Discuss with your doctor what you can do with any medication you don’t make use of.

The canister should be kept at room temperature in a cool, dark place away from direct light and heat. Don’t freeze. Keep this medication inside your car, that is exposed to extreme cold or heat. Do not puncture holes in the container or put it in the flames, even though the container is empty.

Keep in the store Proventil(r) HFA or Ventolin(r) HFA inhaler, with the mouthpiece in place.

Toss any ProAir(r) Digihaler(TM) or ProAir(r) Respiclick(r) 13 months after opening the foil pouch when the dose counter has reached “0” or when the date of expiration is reached, whichever occurs first.

Detailed Albuterol dosage information

Use caution when using Albuterol

It is crucial that your doctor monitor the progress of your child or yourself regularly during your check-ups. This will enable your doctor to determine whether the medication is working correctly and check for any adverse side effects.

Do not take this medicine alongside other similar inhalation medications like isoproterenol (Isuprel(r)) and levalbuterol (Xopenex(tm)) Metaproterenol (Alupent(r)) or the drug pirbuterol (Maxair(r)) or Terbutaline (Brethaire(r)).

This medication can cause paradoxical bronchospasm. That means that your wheezing or breathing can get worse. It could be life-threatening. Consult your physician immediately if your child is experiencing trouble breathing, coughing or wheezing following the use of this medication.

Speak to your doctor or seek medical attention promptly if you:

The symptoms don’t improve or worsen following the use of this medication.
Your inhaler doesn’t appear to be working as efficiently as it does in the past and you’ll need to make it more frequent use.

Your child or you might be taking an anti-inflammatory medication, such as the steroid (cortisone-like medicine) along with this medication. Don’t discontinue taking the anti-inflammatory medicine even if your asthma appears improved, except if your physician advises you to.

Albuterol can trigger serious allergic reactions, like anaphylaxis that can be life-threatening and require urgent medical care. Talk to your doctor immediately if either you or your children suffer from an allergic skin reaction or itching or difficulty breathing or swallowing or any swelling in your hands, face or mouth while taking this medication.

Hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood) can occur when taking this medication. Talk to your doctor immediately If the child or you is suffering from reduced urine dry mouth, a thirst that is increased and irregular heartbeats and loss of appetite. mood swings muscles cramps or pain nausea, vomiting, feeling of numbness or tingling on the feet, hands or lips, breathing problems seizures, or other unusual weakness or fatigue.

Don’t take any other medication in the absence of discussing them with your physician. This includes nonprescription or prescription (over-the-counter OTC) medications for controlling appetite asthma, colds or cough, hayfever or sinus issues and vitamin supplements.

Albuterol side effects

Alongside its necessary effects, some medicines may result in unwanted negative effects. Although not all negative side effects are likely to occur, if they occur, they might require medical attention.

Consult your physician immediately in the event that any of these adverse effects happen:

More commonly

The pounding, rapid, irregular heartbeat, racing pulse
shakes in the hands, arms, legs or feet
The shaking or trembling of feet or hands

Less well-known

Bladder pain
Urine that is cloudy or bloody
chest tightness, pain or discomfort in the chest.
chills
cough
cough that produces mucus
diarrhea
breath is difficult or laboured.
difficulty swallowing
dizziness
sensation of warmth
febrile
the constant urge to urinate
Itching, hives or an appearance of a skin rash
hoarseness
Appetit loss
Lower back or side or side
nausea
The swelling or puffiness of the eyelids, around the eyes the lips, face or the tongue
facial redness and neck and sometimes, the chest.
a nose that is runny
sore throat
stomach pain
swelling, pain lymph glands located in the armpit, neck or the groin
unusual fatigue or weakness

Rare

Itching or welts
massive, hive-like swelling that covers the eyes, face mouth, lips throat, hands, feet, legs, or the genitals
Noisy breathing
swelling of the throat or mouth

Incidence unknown

Agitation
back, arm jaw, or back joint, back, or jaw
chest weight
confusion
less urine
dizziness, faintness or lightheadedness after rising quickly from a sitting or lying in a seated
Drowsiness
dry mouth
extra heartbeat
fainting
Dry, flushed skin
Fruity breath smell
headache
an increase in appetite
an increase in thirst
Increased urine production
irritability
lightheadedness
Muscle pain or cramps
Nervousness
nightmares
Tingling or numbness in the feet, hands or the lips
The eardrums are pounding
Rapid deep breath
anxiety
experiencing, hearing or sensing things that aren’t being experienced, heard or felt.
seizures
a heartbeat that is slow or rapid
stomach cramps
sweating
Unexplained weight loss that is not explained
An unusual feeling of excitement
vomiting

There are some side effects that can occur that usually don’t require medical care. These symptoms may disappear when the body adapts to yours. Additionally, your doctor might be able to inform you of ways to avoid or lessen the effects of these adverse effects. Consult your doctor in the event that any of these symptoms persist or become troubling or if you have questions regarding these: