Albuterol Coupon & Discounts

Albuterol Information:

• What

What is albuterol?

Albuterol is usually administered as a solution of racemic albuterol sulfate salt commonly referred to as albuterol sulfate. It's a bronchodilator that's known as a selective beta2-adrenergic bronchodilator, and it acts by relaxing the muscles in the pulmonary system to make breathing easier via increased airflow. Albuterol uses include treating breathing  problems due to restricted airflow as a result of disorders like asthma or COPD or to prevent those problems due to certain expected events (e.g., exercise).

• How

How do I take albuterol?

Depending on which of the forms of albuterol your doctor is prescribing, you may be instructed to take albuterol according to a time schedule. Other times, it may be taken as needed, either in response to a breathing problem or to prevent a potential one. Always take your medication as instructed to do so by your doctor.

For albuterol inhalers: Before you use the inhaler for the first time, or if you have dropped it or not needed to use it for 2 weeks or more, you will need to prime you're inhaler - talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how to do so.  For regular use, you will remove the cap, shake the inhaler well, and while sitting up straight breathe out as completely as possible. Then you will hold the inhaler with the canister up, put the mouthpiece in your mouth, and press the canister down into the inhaler as you breathe in deeply. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then exhale. You may be instructed to take more than one puff. When finished, replace the cap on the inhaler.

For nebulizers: Take out a new vial and ensure the liquid is clear. Make sure your nebulizer is clean before each use; however, your doctor may permit you to take your albuterol along with other inhaled medications. Squeeze the liquid medication into the reservoir and connect the reservoir to your mouth piece or mask. Connect the compressor before putting on your mask. Be sure to sit up straight in a comfortable position, then turn on the compressor. Breathe in normally but deeply until there is no longer mist in the nebulizer chamber (about 5 to 15 minutes).

• Precautions

Before taking albuterol, tell your doctor if:

• You have or have a history of heart problems, including heart rhythm disorders or congestive heart failure.
• You have or have a history of a kidney problem, including diabetes.
• You have or have a history of an overactive thyroid.
• You are currently taking antidepressants.
• You are taking MAOIs, beta blockers, or digoxin.
• You are using a diuretic.
• You are currently prescribed another bronchodilator.
• You have had poor reactions to other bronchodilators.
• You are taking any other prescribed or over-the-counter medications, drugs, vitamins or supplements.
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding, or plan to become pregnant or to breastfeed.
• Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of taking albuterol?

Certain albuterol side effects require immediate emergency medical attention. These include: confusion, nervousness or anxiety, severe headache, blurred vision, extreme thirst, buzzing in the ears, chest pain, chest tightness, uneven or too-fast heartbeat, high blood pressure, tremor, seizure, hives, swelling in the face or lips, swelling in the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, muscle weakness or the feeling of being limp, unusual discomfort in the legs.

Common side effects include: mild dizziness or nausea, mild headache, dry mouth, dry throat, sore throat or hoarseness, runny nose, mild muscle pain, insomnia or other sleep problems, diarrhea. You do not need to call your doctor if you experience any of these albuterol side effects unless they persist or get worse.

• Missed Dose

What if I forget to take a dose of albuterol?

If you're taking this medication as needed, this is not a problem. If you're taking your medication according to a time schedule, you may take the missed dose so long as it is not almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Always maintain your medication schedule.

• Storage

How do I store albuterol?

Always store your albuterol inhaler where it is dry and keep the cap on the mouthpiece. You will need to clean your nebulizer after every use, but store any form of albuterol at the cool end of room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (e.g, a bathroom). Never store your inhaler or medication in your car on a hot day. Your inhaler's canister can explode when exposed to extreme heat.

• Overdose

What happens if I overdose on albuterol?

Overdose symptoms can include but may not be limited to: dizziness or lightheadedness, fainting, nausea, tremor or seizure, nervousness, uneven or rapid heart rate, chest pain or pain spreading to the arm and shoulder, dry mouth, headache. An overdose can be fatal, so get emergency medical experience immediately.

• Additional Info

Warnings

Always keep your medication with you. Refill your prescription before your current one runs out. Bear in mind that increased need for albuterol or other similar medications may indicate an oncoming severe attack.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes immediately and seek medical attention.

This is not a comprehensive medication guide, if you need albuterol patient assistance, contact your doctor or pharmacist

Brand Names

Albuterol inhalers are a generic medication also available under the brand names Ventolin HFA (sometimes as ReliOn Ventolin HFA), Proventil HFA, Proair HFA, and Accuneb. Obviously, the albuterol retail cost is already a savings over the brand names. However, we provide additional albuterol patient assistance via an albuterol discount. Simply click Claim Discount and print or download our free albuterol discount coupon to save as much as 70% on your local pharmacy's price.