- Note that according to the National Institutes of Health, albuterol is a bronchodilator. There are different classification of bronchodilators, including long-acting and fast-acting. Albuterol is considered a fast-acting medication. The dosage with an albuterol inhaler may vary. However, according to National Institutes of Health, frequency is usually every four to six hours.
- Keep in mind that albuterol will not help all types of breathing problems, However, it is often used to treat problems which cause the airways to narrow or constrict. In breathing problems, such as asthma, the narrowing of the airway causes symptoms, such as wheezing and difficulty breathing. Breathing can become extremely impaired and in severe cases lead to respiratory failure. An albuterol inhaler helps relax the muscles in the lungs and open them up. This improves symptoms and makes breathing easier.
- Understand that some people may have trouble using an inhaler. Attaching an AeroChamber, also called a spacer, may make using an albuterol inhaler easier. It may also reduce side effects, such as throat irritation and allow more medication to get to the lungs. Attach a pediatric mask to an AeroChamber to give the albuterol inhaler to young children. According to the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, a spacer with a mask should be used with children under the age of six.
- Shake the inhaler prior to use. Exhale all your air out of the lungs. If you are attaching an AeroChamber place the inhaler in one end of the chamber. Place your mouth around the mouthpiece. If you are not using an AeroChamber, place your mouth directly on the mouthpiece of the canister. Press the albuterol to dispense the medication. Inhale slowly and deeply for a few seconds. Hold your breath for 10 seconds if possible. If more than one puff is prescribed, wait a minute and repeat the process until the prescribed number of puffs is taken.
- Know that although not all people who use an albuterol inhaler have side effects, they can occur. Possible side effects according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, include an increased heart rate, tremors and anxiety. Additional side effects according to the National Institutes of Health include, throat irritation and cough. Larger doses of the medication may increase the chances of side effects.
