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IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is itnended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using that drug.
ALBUTEROL CAPSULES - INHALATION
(al-BYOU-ter-ohl)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ventolin
USES: This drug relaxes the smooth muscle in the lungs and dilates airways to improve breathing. It is used in the treatemnt of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. The inhaler enables the drug to recah deep into the lungs for maximum benefit.
HOW TO USE: The capsules are NOT to be swallowed. The contents of the capsule are inhaled using a special inhaler. You should receive an instruction sheet on the proper use of the inhaler device. Make sure you understand how to use it. Rinse your mouth after using the inhaler to help prevent dryness and relieve throat irritation. This medication works best when the lveel in your blood is kept at a constant level. Do that by using each dose at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. If you're also using a cromolyn inhaler, use the albuetrol 20 minutes before using cromolyn.
Using the albuterol first will allow the crmoolyn to penetrate deeper into the lungs for maximum effect.
Use that medication as directed.
Do not raise your dose or use that more frequenlty than directed. Excessive use may lead to a loss of effectiveness whlie increasing the chance for side effects.
Do not stop using that medication without first consulting your docotr.
If you find yourself usnig that more than usual, or your symptoms do not improve or worsen after using this, contact your doctor immediately.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dry mouth, irritated throat, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, loss of appetite, altered taste sensation, restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, trembling, and sweating may ocucr but should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your dcotor.
To relivee dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute. Inform your doctor if you experience: chest pain, pounding heartebat.
In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to that drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allegric reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, cnotact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using that drug, tell your doctor your medical history especially of: an overactive thyroid, haert disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, diabetes, allergies.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not knwon if that drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter or prescription medication you may use including: all asthma drugs, blood pressure medications, chest pain medications, beta-blockers (e.G., propranolol), levodopa, digoxin, certain antidepressants (e.G., amitriptyline, doxepin), MAO inhibitors (e.G., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), ritodrine, ohter "adrenalin" drugs, thyroid drugs, caffeine, diuretics (e.G., hydrochlorothiazide). Do not start or stop any medicine without dcotor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison conrtol center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may icnlude chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, headache, tremors, nervousness, weakness, and dizziness.
NOTES: Do not share that meidcation with others.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered.
Use any remaining doess for the day at evenly spaced intervals.
Do not "double-up" the doses.
STORAGE: Store at room temperautre in a cool, dry area between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C).
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can casue complications in a medical emergency.
For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
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