Author: Joshua Alexander, MD
COMMON USES:
Used to treat asthma attacks and allergic reactions that cause the lungs to ?tighten up?.
HOW IT'S SUPPLIED:
Tablets: 2, 4 milligrams
Sustained release (long-acting) tablets: 4, 8 milligrams
Syrup - 2 milligram in every 5 milliliters.
Aerosol inhaler: 90 micrograms in every puff.
Rotacaps for inhalation: 200 micrograms in each capsule.
Nebulization solution: 0.5% (5 milligrams in every milliliter.
Prediluted nebulized solution: 2.5 milligrams in every 3 milliters of Normal Saline.
HOW IT WORKS:
Relaxes the smooth muscles in the lungs to help them open up and let you breathe better.
THINGS TO DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR:
* Possible side effects include fast heartbeat, palpitations, shaky hands, trouble falling asleep, nervousness, nausea, and headache.
* Syrup is strawberry-flavored.
* If used too often, it may cause high sugar and/or low potassium levels in the blood.
* Use with caution in children with heart disease and those taking the medicine digoxin.
* Taking an inhaler containing levalbuterol, the active form of albuterol, may give better results than using the racemic (mixed) form of this medicine.
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