ALBUTEROL

Drug Name: ALBUTEROL

ALBUTEROL DESCRIPTION:
BRONCHODILATOR - AEROSOL ORAL INHALER

COMMON ALBUTEROL BRAND NAME(S):
Alupent, Brethaire, Bronkaid Mist, Duo-Medihaler, Isuprel, Medihaler-Epi, Medihaler-Iso, Primatene Mist, Proventil, Ventolin

ALBUTEROL SIDE EFFECTS:
Dry mouth, irritated throat, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, loss of appetite, altered taste sensation, restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, trembling, and sweating may occur but should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute. Inform your doctor if you experience: chest pain, pounding heartbeat, breathing difficulties. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE ALBUTEROL:
ALBUTEROL: Make sure you understand how to use the inhaler properly. Shake the canister well before using. Place the canister near your mouth and exhale. Depress the spray as you inhale deeply. Hold your breath for a few seconds to allow the drug to be absorbed. If more than one inhalation is prescribed, wait at least one full minute between inhalations. Rinse your mouth after using to help prevent dryness and relieve throat irritation. Use ALBUTEROL exactly as prescribed. Do not use it more frequently without your doctor's approval. Excessive use may make the drug less effective and may increase side effects. If you find yourself using more than usual, contact your doctor. If symptoms do not improve or worsen after using ALBUTEROL or if you find yourself using this more than usual, contact your doctor immediately.

ALBUTEROL USES:
ALBUTEROL relaxes the smooth muscle in the lungs and dilates airways to improve breathing. It is used in the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. The inhaler enables the drug to reach deep into the lungs for maximum benefit.

ALBUTEROL PRECAUTIONS:
Before using ALBUTEROL, tell your doctor your medical history especially of: overactive thyroid, heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, diabetes, any drug allergies. ALBUTEROL should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risk and benefits with your doctor. ALBUTEROL may be excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

ALBUTEROL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you use, including: beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, timolol); drugs used to treat asthma; ephedrine; epinephrine; pseudoephedrine; drugs for depression; MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine); diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide). Consult your doctor before using diet pills or drugs used to treat colds or allergies; including those sold over-the-counter. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

ALBUTEROL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include seizures, dizziness, headache, unusually fast heart- beat, muscle weakness, sleeplessness, or chest pain.

ALBUTEROL NOTES:
Do not share ALBUTEROL with others.

MISSED ALBUTEROL DOSE:
Ask your doctor about what action to take if you should miss a dose. Do not "double-up" the dose.

ALBUTEROL STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not puncture. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.