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Albuterol is a drug, that comes in the form of a inhaler, nebulizer, tablet, or syrup and is all taken by mouth. It is used to treat symptoms of emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma. Symptoms could include shortness of breath, breathing troubles, and wheezing within the patient. Albuterol is placed within a classification of medicines known as beta-agonists and works to open and relax air passages to allow easier breathing.

Depending on the form prescribed by your doctor, there are various ways to use this medication. For syrups or tablets, it is generally prescribed as a three to four time's daily dosage. If using tablets of the extended-release type, it's likely to be prescribed for twice per day. If prescribed for use through a nebulizer, it will probably be a solution and prescribed for dosages of three to four times daily. For inhalers, it is generally prescribed as needed every four to six hours.

For younger children, Albuterol is generally prescribed in the syrup, tablet, or nebulizer form. This is because it is often difficult to teach young children how to use the inhalers. The nebulizer is often more affective because it runs consistently and a mask or adapter is given to place over or in the mouth. This ensures that the child is getting the amount of medication needed.

As with any medication there are some side effects when taking Albuterol. Some of the most common include nervousness, tremors, dizziness, and shakiness.

People taking this medication have noticed instances of headaches, excitement, insomnia, increased appetite, nosebleeds, vomiting, muscle cramps, stomach pain, as well as nausea. You should also take note if you develop a cough, dry mouth, or throat irriation, particularly when using an inhaler.

If you experience any of the above and they persist or worsen, you should call your physician right away.

Some uncommon, but serious side effect that should be told to your doctor immediately include discomfort or pain in the chest area, irregular, pounding or rapid heartbeat, and hives. Additional serious side effect could also include a severe rash, increased difficulty in breathing, itching, or swelling of the throat, facial areas, lips, tongue, feet, eyes, lower legs, or ankles.

It is important that you take Albuterol exactly as prescribed by your physician. Throat irritation and dry mouth can be relieved by sucking hard candy, chewing gums, or rinsing the mouth out with water. Furthermore, you should be sure to keep the inhaler cleaned regularly to avoid bacteria. Once a week is preferred. You can clean it by removing the canister from the plastic container and washing the plastic container thoroughly with warm water, then dry completely before use again.

Albuterol has been proven a very effective medication when it comes to combating the symptoms of asthma, or any lung related condition. If you find your symptoms are worsening or you have to increase the number of times you use the medication, you should consult with your doctor. This could indicate that the asthma or lung condition is becoming worse or that Albuterol may not be the right treatment for you.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to your doctor for more information about Albuterol.