Alupent

Generic name: Metaproterenol sulfate

What is Alupent?

Alupent is a bronchodilator prescribed for the prevention and relief of bronchial asthma and bronchial spasms (wheezing) associated with bronchitis and emphysema. Alupent Inhalation Solution is also used to treat acute asthmatic attacks in children 6 years of age and older.

What is the most important information I should know about Alupent?

Alupent's effects last up to 6 hours. It should not be used more frequently than your doctor recommends. Increasing the number of doses can be dangerous and may actually make symptoms of asthma worse. Fatalities have occurred with excessive use of this medication. If the dose your doctor recommends does not provide relief of your symptoms, if your symptoms become worse, or if side effects occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Who should not take Alupent?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Alupent or similar drugs, such as Proventil, you should not take this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced. Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take this medication if you have an irregular, rapid heart rate.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Alupent. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a heart condition, epilepsy, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, or diabetes.

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.

Inhalation Aerosol

Adults: The usual single dose is 2 to 3 inhalations. Inhalation should usually not be repeated more often than about every 3 to 4 hours. Total dosage per day should not exceed 12 inhalations.

Inhalation Solution 5%

As part of a total treatment program for chronic breathing disorders, the inhalation solution may be taken 3 to 4 times per day, as determined by your doctor.

The usual single dose with the nebulizer is 10 inhalations. However, a single dose of 5 to 15 inhalations can be taken, as determined by your doctor. The usual single daily dose with the IPPB is 0.3 milliliter diluted in approximately 2.5 milliliters of saline solution. The dosage range is 0.2 to 0.3 milliliter, as determined by your doctor.

Inhalation Solution 0.4% and 0.6% Unit-Dose Vials

The inhalation solution unit-dose vial is administered by oral inhalation using an intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB) apparatus. The usual adult dose is 1 vial per treatment. You usually should not need to repeat the treatment more often than every 4 hours for severe attacks of wheezing. You can use the unit-dose vials 3 to 4 times a day.

Inhalation Aerosol

Children: Alupent Inhalation Aerosol is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.

Inhalation Solution 5%

For children aged 6 to 12 years, the usual single dose is 0.1 milliliter, given by oral inhalation with a nebulizer. Dosage can be increased to 0.2 milliliter 3 to 4 times a day.

The unit-dose vial is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

How should I take Alupent?

Inhalation solution is given by oral inhalation with the aid of a nebulizer or an intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB) apparatus.

What should I avoid while taking Alupent?

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Alupent?

Alupent 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 Alupent with the following:

Antidepressant drugs, such as MAO inhibitors

Bronchodilators

Tricyclic antidepressants

What are the possible side effects of Alupent?

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: bad taste in mouth, cough, dizziness, headache, high blood pressure, nausea, nervousness, rapid or throbbing heartbeat, stomach and intestinal upset, throat irritation, tremors, vomiting, worsening or aggravation of asthma

Side effects can occur when a new aerosol container is used, even though you have had no trouble with the medication in the past. Replacing the container may solve the problem.

Can I receive Alupent if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Alupent during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Alupent?

Take the dose as soon as you remember. Take any remaining doses for the day at equal intervals thereafter. Do not increase the total for the day or take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Alupent?

Store at room temperature. Protect from light and excessive humidity. Keep out of reach of children.