An albuterol inhaler can be used during an asthma attack to open up the airways. This eMedTV article discusses other uses for albuterol inhalers, explains how the inhalers work, and describes the various inhalers that are currently available.
Most people don't have problems with albuterol inhalers; side effects, however, are possible. This eMedTV segment lists common side effects of albuterol inhalers (such as a cough) and also describes side effects that may require medical attention.
Albuterol inhaler uses are mainly for the treatment of asthma attacks and other similar lung problems. This eMedTV segment discusses albuterol inhaler use in children and also lists possible "off-label" uses for the medicine.
The recommended albuterol inhaler dosage for most people is two sprays. This section of the eMedTV library discusses albuterol inhaler dosing in more detail and offers tips and precautions for how to use the inhaler.
If you're taking beta blockers or digoxin while using an albuterol inhaler, drug interactions may occur. This eMedTV page lists other drugs that may cause albuterol inhaler interactions and explains the possible effects of these interactions.
Don't puncture albuterol inhaler canisters or keep them near open flames. This page on the eMedTV Web site offers other important albuterol inhaler warnings and precautions, including information on who should not use the inhalers.
There is only one generic albuterol inhaler that is currently available. As this eMedTV page explains, Ventolin and other older forms of albuterol inhalers will be taken off the market after 2008 because they aren't environmentally friendly.
There are currently three new environmentally friendly albuterol inhaler products available. This eMedTV article discusses when the older inhalers will no longer be available on the market and explains how to obtain the new albuterol inhalers.
Signs of an albuterol inhaler overdose may include chest pain, fatigue, and seizures. This eMedTV page lists other possible overdose symptoms and describes treatment options that are available for people who have overdosed on an albuterol inhaler.
There are potential risks associated with using albuterol inhalers during pregnancy. This eMedTV segment includes clinical findings on albuterol inhalers and pregnancy, and explains why a doctor may still prescribe inhalers during pregnancy.
It is not known whether it's safe to use albuterol inhalers while breastfeeding. This eMedTV resource discusses albuterol inhalers and breastfeeding in more detail and explains the importance of talking to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Albuterol sulfate is a prescription drug that is used to treat airway spasms caused by asthma or COPD. This eMedTV page describes various albuterol sulfate products, explains how the medication works, and lists possible side effects that may occur.
