Albuterol sulfate

What is Albuterol sulfate?

Drugs containing albuterol are prescribed for the prevention and relief of bronchial spasms that narrow the airway. This especially applies to the treatment of asthma. Some brands are also used for the prevention of bronchial spasm due to exercise.

What is the most important information I should know about Albuterol sulfate?

Do not take albuterol more frequently than your doctor recommends. Increasing the number of doses can be dangerous and may actually make symptoms of asthma worse. If the dose your doctor recommends does not provide relief of your symptoms, or if your symptoms become worse, consult your doctor immediately.

You may have an immediate, serious allergic reaction to the first dose of albuterol, causing symptoms such as hives, rash, and swelling of the mouth, throat, lips, and tongue. The drug has been known to cause life-threatening bronchial spasms, especially with the first dose from a new canister or vial. There have also been rare reports of skin reddening and peeling in children taking albuterol syrup.

Who should not take Albuterol sulfate?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to albuterol or other bronchodilators, you should not take this medication. Make sure that your doctor is aware of any drug reactions that you have experienced.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Albuterol sulfate?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a heart condition, seizure disorder, high blood pressure, abnormal heartbeat, overactive thyroid gland, or diabetes. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any change in heartbeat or pulse while taking albuterol.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

The dosage will depend on the severity of your condition and the type of product you are taking. Always follow the dosage recommendations provided by your doctor or pharmacist. The following is a general dosage guideline based on various manufacturer recommendations.

Inhalation Aerosol

Adults: If you are being treated for a sudden or severe bronchial spasm or the prevention of asthma symptoms, the usual dosage of albuterol inhalation aerosol is 2 inhalations repeated every 4 to 6 hours. More frequent use is not recommended. In some individuals, 1 inhalation every 4 hours may be sufficient. To prevent exercise-induced bronchial spasm, the usual dose is 2 inhalations taken 15 to 30 minutes before exercise.

Children age 4 years and older (age 12 and older for certain products): The usual dose is 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours. To prevent exercise-induced bronchial spasm, the usual dose is 2 inhalations taken 15 to 30 minutes before exercise.

Tablets

Adults and children 12 years and older: The usual starting dose is 2 or 4 milligrams 3 to 4 times a day. Dosage should not exceed 32 milligrams per day.

Children 6 to 12 years: The usual starting dose is 2 milligrams 3 or 4 times a day. The dose can be increased with caution but should not exceed 24 milligrams per day. Safety and effectiveness in children under 6 have not been established.

Syrup

Adults and children 12 years and older: The usual starting dose is 1 or 2 teaspoonfuls 3 or 4 times a day. Dosage should not exceed 4 teaspoonfuls 4 times a day.

Children 6 to 12 years: The usual starting dose is 1 teaspoonful 3 to 4 times a day. The dosage should not exceed 3 teaspoonfuls 4 times a day. For children 2 to 6 years of age, the starting dose is 0.1 milligram per 2.2 pounds of body weight, to a maximum of 4 milligrams, 3 times a day.

Inhalation Solution

Adults and children 12 years and older: The usual dosage is 2.5 milligrams administered 3 to 4 times daily by nebulization. Do not use more often or in higher doses. To administer 2.5 milligrams, use the entire contents of a unit-dose bottle of the 0.083% solution or dilute 0.5 milliliter of the 0.5 percent solution with 2.5 milliliters of sterile normal saline solution.

Children 2 to 12 years: Inhalation Solution: The usual starting dose is 0.63 or 1.25 milligrams 3 or 4 time daily by nebulization. To administer, use the entire contents of the prescribed unit-dose vial. The 1.25 milligram dosage may be more helpful for children 6 to 12 with more severe asthma, and for children 11 to 12.

Extended-Release Tablets

Adults and children 12 years and older: The usual recommended dosage is 8 milligrams every 12 hours. In some people, 4 milligrams every 12 hours may be sufficient. If the desired effect is not achieved with the standard dosage, your doctor may increase doses to a maximum of 32 milligrams per day, divided into two 16-milligram doses spaced 12 hours apart. Those taking standard tablets or syrup can switch to extended-release tablets. One extended-release tablet every 12 hours is equivalent to one 2-milligram standard tablet every 6 hours.

Children 6 to 12 years: The usual starting dosage is 4 milligrams every 12 hours. The dosage can be increased with caution but should not exceed 24 milligrams per day.

How should I take Albuterol sulfate?

If you are taking extended-release tablets, swallow them whole with some liquid—never chew or crush them.

Shake the inhalation aerosol canister well before using and make sure it's firmly seated in the plastic mouthpiece. Before using it for the first time, prime the canister with 4 sprays into the air away from your face. Prime it with 2 sprays whenever it has not been used for at least 4 days. Use only the adapter that comes with the product; do not use this adapter with any other product. Wash the plastic mouthpiece with warm running water at least once a week to prevent medication buildup and blockage.

If you are using an inhalation solution, be sure to protect it from contamination. Keep the tip of the dropper away from the lip of the bottle or any other surface. Do not use the solution if it changes color or becomes cloudy.

What should I avoid while taking Albuterol sulfate?

Do not exceed your doctor's recommended dose of albuterol. If you need more than usual, check with your doctor. Your asthma may be getting unstable, and you may need another medication. Do not, however, change your medication without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.

When taking albuterol inhalation aerosol, you should not use other inhaled medications before checking with your doctor.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Albuterol sulfate?

Use albuterol inhalation aerosol with other aerosol bronchodilators only if your doctor recommends it.

If albuterol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining albuterol with the following: antidepressants classified as MAO inhibitors (such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine) or tricyclic antidepressants (such as amitriptyline and desipramine), beta-blockers (a class of heart and blood pressure drugs), digoxin, drugs similar to albuterol such as terbutaline and epinephrine, and drugs that lower potassium levels (e.g., diuretics such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide).

What are the possible side effects of Albuterol sulfate?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, dizziness, heart palpitations, heartburn, increased blood pressure, nausea and vomiting, nervousness, rapid pulse or heartbeat, respiratory tract infections, stuffy or runny nose, tremor

Can I receive Albuterol sulfate if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of albuterol during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether albuterol appears in breast milk. If you'd like to breastfeed, discuss your options with your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Albuterol sulfate?

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember; then take any remaining doses for that day at equally spaced intervals. Never take a double dose.

How should I store Albuterol sulfate?

Follow the instructions on the manufacturer's label.