Albuterol is a bronchodilator, one of several medications used to expand airways to enhance a patient's ability to breathe. Albuterol is typically used to treat asthma and COPD, although it is also used to treat cystic fibrosis. Inhalers for the treatment of asthma are referred to as metered dose inhalers, because they give a measured amount of aerosolized medicine each time they are used.
Fast Facts:
- Also known as Salbutamol
- Relaxes muscles in air passages to improve breathing
- Is a Bronchodilator
- Requires a prescription
- Typically given in inhaled form, but can be delivered intravenously
Asthma
Asthma is the primary condition albuterol is used to treat. Asthma is a chronic condition where airways can become suddenly inflamed and lined with excessive mucous, typically in reaction to environmental stimuli (such as allergens, temperature changes, exercise, etc.) When not triggered, asthma sufferers tend to find themselves slightly short of breath regularly, and are easily winded by normal exertion. The symptoms of an asthma attack are wheezing, coughing, tightness in the chest, and shortness of breath.
Side Effects
Rare, Possibly Severe Side Effects
- Allergic reactionsDrugs.com: Albuterol
- AnginaDrugs.com: Albuterol
- Rapid or uneven heartbeatDrugs.com: Albuterol
- High blood pressureDrugs.com: Albuterol
Disclaimer: The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking Albuterol.
Albuterol News
Google News: Albuterol:
CBS News: Drug Inhalers Using CFCs Banned (2005)
Albuterol Abuse
MedPage Today: Asthma Inhaler Misuse Linked to Drug and Alcohol Abuse in Adolescents (2005)
TIME: How Doctors Help The Dopers (2004)
iSteriods: Albuterol for Muscle Building
Yahoo! Answers: How does a person abuse Albuterol?
University of Michigan: Asthma inhaler abuse associated with other drug use in teens (2005)
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