What Are the Uses of Albuterol?
Albuterol is a medication that is used for the treatment of various respiratory conditions, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is a bronchodilator that operates by enabling the airway muscles to relax and increasing the flow of air to the lungs. It is also used for the prevention of bronchospasms in people who have reversible obstructive airway disease.
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Identification
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Albuterol is a prescription medicine. People that are prescribed Albuterol generally have asthma, or exercise-induced asthma (asthma that comes about due to engaging in strenuous exercise). Albuterol is used to manage and soothe obstructions of the airways (also known as bronchospasms) in individuals that have these conditions.
Caution
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Albuterol is not safe or suitable for everybody to use. If you are allergic to Albuterol, you should not take it under any circumstance. Also, there are certain conditions that may may albuterol unsafe for you. These medical conditions include seizure-related disorders (like epilepsy), hypertension, congestive heart failure, heart disease, overactive thyroid, diabetes, and heart rhythm disorder.
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Common Side Effects
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There are some possible common side effects of this bronchodilator. These side effects tend to be minor and usually subside quickly. However, if the side effect or effects persist or intensify with time, you must consult your doctor. These side effects include dry throat, dry mouth, dizziness, anxiety, nervousness, headache, sleeplessness, hoarseness, coughing, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, muscle aches and diarrhea.
Severe Side Effects
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Severe side effects of Albuterol are uncommon, but are possible. Should they occur, you must seek emergency medical attention. These serious effects include chest ache, rapid, uneven and pounding heartbeat, bronchospasm (chest heaviness, wheezing, and difficulty breathing), low potassium (symptoms include urinating more, extreme thirst, disorientation, confusion, muscle limpness or weakness, discomfort of the legs, and uneven heart rate) and severely high blood pressure (signs include shortness of breath, chest pain, anxiety, buzzing within the ears, blurry vision and extreme headache).
Abuse
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Apart from its normal use for treating respiratory conditions such as asthma, Albuterol can also be abused. It has stimulatory properties, and can raise the blood pressure as well as the heart rate. Some people might abuse this medication due to its stimulant capabilities. Also, Albuterol can lead to weight loss, so some people might abuse it and misuse it for that purpose.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Christian Guthier
