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Brand Name: Proventil

Generic Name: albuterol

An adrenergic bronchodilator - It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breat... more

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INFO

What is this medicine?

Proventil (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. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your dose. Household spoons are not accurate. 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 such as 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 use extra albuterol. 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
difficulty sleeping
headache
fast heartbeat
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.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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