How to Tell If Albuterol Is Not Effective
Albuterol is a drug used to treat asthma symptoms. Albuterol is generally given to asthma patients in the form of a inhalation treatment, either by a hand-held aerosol or by a nebulizer (an electrical device that turns the liquid medicine into a mist, which is then inhaled). You must follow the directions when you are administering albuterol to determine if it is working for you. If your albuterol has become ineffective, let your doctor know. There are many other options to help you keep your asthma under control.
Instructions
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1
Monitor how often you wake with a cough. Waking with a cough more than two nights per month is a sign that your albuterol is not working.
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Record the amount of times you need to use a rescue inhaler. Your albuterol might not be working if you are using your rescue inhaler more that two times per week.
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Monitor your breathing for wheezing and difficulty inhaling. Wheezing and having difficulty breathing more than two times a week is another way that your body is letting you know that albuterol is not working.
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4
Contact your doctor if you are unable to do your regular daily activities. If this happens, you know that albuterol has become ineffective.
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Tips & Warnings
Using your inhalator correctly is the only way of making sure that you are getting the proper dosage.
If it is too hard to inhale as you press the canister, ask your doctor for a diffuser (also called a spacer). This puts space, in the form of a tube, between the canister and your lips and enables you to draw in the medicine at a slower rate.
Remember to prime your inhaler the first time you use it or if you haven't used it in more than two weeks.
If you are having an asthma attack and the albuterol does not help, seek professional help immediately.
