albuterol  (al BYOO ter ole)

View All Brands

Volmax, Ventolin HFA, Proventil, Albuterol Extended Release, Proventil Repetabs, Albuterol Sulfate HFA, Ventolin Rotacaps, Airet, Ventolin Nebules, Albuterol Sulfate, VoSpire ER, Proventil HFA, Accuneb, Ventolin, Respirol, ProAir HFA

What is this medicine?

ALBUTEROL (al BYOO ter ole) is a bronchodilator. It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breathe. This medicine is used to treat and to prevent bronchospasm.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• diabetes
• heart disease or irregular heartbeat
• high blood pressure
• pheochromocytoma
• seizures
• thyroid disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to albuterol, levalbuterol, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Do not take more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• anti-infectives like chloroquine and pentamidine
• caffeine
• cisapride
• diuretics
• medicines for colds
• medicines for depression or for emotional or psychotic conditions
• medicines for weight loss including some herbal products
• methadone
• some antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, levofloxacin, and linezolid
• some heart medicines
• steroid hormones like dexamethasone, cortisone, hydrocortisone
• theophylline
• thyroid hormones

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve. Do not take extra doses. If your asthma or bronchitis gets worse while you are using this medicine, call your doctor right away.

If your mouth gets dry try chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy. Drink water as directed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• chest pain
• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
• high blood pressure
• irregular heartbeat
• fever
• muscle cramps or weakness
• pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet
• vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• cough
• diarrhea
• difficulty sleeping
• fast heartbeat
• headache
• nervousness, trembling
• stuffy or runny nose
• upset stomach

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.