Generic
Name: ALBUTEROL
Pronunciation: (al byoo' ter ole)
Trade Name(s): Asthalin, Croysal, Proventil, Ventolin
Why it is prescribed: Albuterol is used in the treatment
of bronchospasm. It opens the airways in the lungs within minutes
of inhalation of the drug, by relaxing the smooth muscle that
surrounds the airways. It relieves asthma attacks and troubled
breathing caused by bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung diseases.
When it is to be taken: Albuterol is taken two to four
times a day orally. It is longer acting (2-5 hours).
How it should be taken: Albuterol is available in the form
of longer-action
Special Instruction: 1. Inhalation devices require regular
cleaning and periodic replacement. Follow the instructions carefully.
2. If this medication loses its effectiveness or if your condition
worsens, contact your doctor immediately.
3. Do not take more drugs at each dose. Increasing your dose can
be harmful.
Side Effects: Cardiac side effects are not prominent. Muscle
tremors are the dose related side effects. Bad taste, blurred
vision, urinary retension, palpitation and ankle edema can also
occur.
Other Precautions: 1. Proper technique is required with
all the inhalers.
2. People should not overuse the drug because of the fatal heart
complications.
3. Do not use greater than prescribed dose.
4. In combination with other inhalers that also open airways,
this drug can result in an increased incidence of side effects.
5. Inform your doctor if you're a pregnant or a breast-feeding
woman.
6. Inform your doctor regarding your previous drug history.
7. Tell your doctor if you ever had a bad reaction to ephedrine,
epinephrine, terbutaline or metaproterenol.
Storage Conditions: 1. The inhaler should not be refrigerated.
2. Avoid puncturing the aerosol container. Metered dose inhaler
requires proper inhalation technique.
3. Inhaler technique must be checked to maintain proficiency.