How To

How to Take Albuterol Aerosol

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(5 Ratings)

Albuterol aerosol is a medication used for the treatment of asthma and other airway diseases. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the lungs, allowing air to pass more freely. Albuterol aerosol can also be used to treat breathing problems caused by exercise or work, as well as other conditions determined by a doctor.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Albuterol aerosol
  • Prescription
  1. Step 1

    Prime the Albuterol aerosol inhaler before the first use. Shake the inhaler well, point it away from yourself and others and press the canister. Repeat the process two more times to complete the inhaler priming.

  2. Step 2

    Remove the protective cap from the inhaler’s mouthpiece. Check the inhaler for any obstructions or debris that could be inhaled into your lungs.

  3. Step 3

    Shake the inhaler well before each use. Breathe out completely. Place the inhaler in your mouth unless you are under a doctor’s orders to use the inhaler differently. (If your doctor instructs you to place the inhaler away from your mouth, he or she should give you a spacer to keep the inhaler 1 to 2 inches from your mouth.)

  4. Step 4

    Inhale slowly and press the canister at the same time. Continue to inhale slowly, then hold your breath for a comfortable amount of time (try 10 seconds). Breath out through your nose, keeping your mouth tightly shut. Wait 1 minute between each prescribed inhalation.

  5. Step 5

    Clean the Albuterol aerosol mouthpiece once a week to avoid blockage. To clean the mouthpiece you must first remove the canister. Rinse the mouthpiece under running water for 30 seconds, then shake off excess water immediately. Let the mouthpiece dry overnight to ensure there is no moisture remaining. Replace the canister, shake well and spray one time.

Tips & Warnings
  • Read the patient pamphlet that comes with Albuterol aerosol. If you have any questions, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
  • The Albuterol aerosol inhaler contains 200 sprays. Keep track of the sprays and discontinue after the 200th spray, or you will not receive the proper medication dosage.
  • Albuterol aerosol should work for 4 to 6 hours with each dose.
  • If you miss a dose of Albuterol aerosol, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. If so, skip the dose unless given permission by your doctor. Never double-dose with Albuterol aerosol.
  • Diabetes patients should have their blood sugar checked regularly while taking Albuterol. Albuterol has an effect on blood-sugar levels.
  • Store Albuterol aerosol at room temperature. Keep the canister from freezing, extreme heat and moisture. Do not puncture the aerosol canister.
  • Do not take more than your prescribed dosage to avoid serious heart problems.
  • Seek medical attention immediately if you have worsened breathing problems after your initial dose of Albuterol aerosol with a new canister.
  • Do not use Albuterol aerosol without first consulting your doctor if you have a history of heart problems, blood-vessel problems, low potassium, high blood pressure, seizures, thyroid problems, diabetes, kidney problems or an adrenal gland tumor.
  • Albuterol aerosol is known to have adverse reactions when combined with diuretics, catechol-o-methyltransferase inhibitors, MAOIs, sympathomimetic bronchodilators, stimulants, sympathomimetics, tricyclic antidepressants, beta-blockers and digoxin. Inform your doctor if you are currently taking or have recently taken any of these medications before taking Albuterol aerosol.
  • Side effects from the use of Albuterol aerosol include headache, nervousness, cough, unusual taste in the mouth, sinus inflammation, trouble sleeping, tremors, dry or sore throat, allergic reactions (hives, trouble breathing and swelling of the throat, lips and tongue), chest pain, irregular heartbeat, severe headache, dizziness, worse breathing problems, wheezing, hoarseness and pounding in the chest. Seek medical attention immediately if problems become severe.

Comments  

Flag This Comment

on 6/28/2009 check here http://albuterolstore.com/

Post a Comment

Post a Comment
  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This

Related Ads

Get Free Health Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US

Live Strong Partner
Livestrong_eHow Health