Proventil HFA

Generic name: Albuterol sulfate

What is Proventil HFA?

Proventil HFA is used to treat and prevent wheezing and shortness of breath brought about by breathing problems such as asthma. It is also used in the prevention of exercise-induced asthma. Proventil HFA relaxes muscles in the airways to improve breathing.

What is the most important information I should know about Proventil HFA?

Increasing the number of doses of Proventil can be dangerous and may actually worsen asthma symptoms. Do not take Proventil more frequently than your doctor recommends.

If the dose your doctor recommends does not provide relief of your symptoms, or if your symptoms become worse, consult your doctor immediately.

Who should not take Proventil HFA?

Do not take Proventil if you are allergic to the medication or any or its ingredients.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Proventil. 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.

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.

Adults and children ≥4 years: For treatment of acute episodes of bronchospasm or prevention of asthmatic symptoms, the usual dosage for adults and children ≥4 years is 2 inhalations repeated every 4 to 6 hours.

How should I take Proventil HFA?

Speak with your doctor about the correct way to use the Proventil HFA inhaler and refer to the detailed instructions the accompanied the drug.

As with all aerosol medications, it is recommended to prime the inhaler before using for the first time and in cases where the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks. Prime by releasing 4 "test sprays" into the air, away from your face.

Keeping the plastic mouthpiece clean is extremely important to prevent medication buildup and blockage. The mouthpiece should be washed, shaken to remove excess water and air dried thoroughly at least once a week. The inhaler may stop spraying if not properly cleaned.

The correct amount of medication in each inhalation cannot be assured after 200 actuations, even though the canister is not completely empty. Discard the canister when the labeled number of actuations have been used. Before you reach the specific number of actuations, you should consult your physician to determine whether a refill is needed.

Just as you should not take extra doses without consulting your physician, you also should not stop using Proventil HFA Inhalation Aerosol without consulting your physician.

What should I avoid while taking Proventil HFA?

Avoid puncturing the inhaler.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Proventil HFA?

If Proventil 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 Proventil with the following: antidepressants classified as MAO inhibitors and tricyclics, beta blockers, digoxin, drugs similar to albuterol and epinephrine, drugs that lower potassium levels, other inhaled medications.

What are the possible side effects of Proventil HFA?

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: bronchitis, cough, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, dry mouth, headaches, hives, nausea, nervousness, rash, swelling of mouth and throat, taste sensation on inhalation, throat irritation, tremors

Can I receive Proventil HFA if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Proventil 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 Proventil HFA?

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember; then take any remaining doses for that day at equally spaced intervals. Never take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Proventil HFA?

Proventil should be stored at room temperature.