Drug Name: METAPROTERENOL SULFATE METAPROTERENOL SULFATE DESCRIPTION: METAPROTERENOL - INHALATION PRE-MIXED SOLUTION (met-uh-pro-TAIR-en-ohl) COMMON METAPROTERENOL SULFATE BRAND NAME(S): Alupent, Arm-A-Med METAPROTERENOL SULFATE SIDE EFFECTS: Tremor, nervousness, shakiness, headache, nausea, heartburn, lightheadedness, difficulty sleeping, unusual taste in mouth, hoarseness or dry throat may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your Inform your doctor if you develop a rapid heartbeat, chest pain, dizziness or coughing. 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 or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. HOW TO USE METAPROTERENOL SULFATE: METAPROTERENOL SULFATE: METAPROTERENOL SULFATE is inhaled into the lungs using special breathing equipment known as a hand held nebulizer. A health care professional will demonstrate the proper way to use the equipment. Make sure you understand how to operate the nebulizer and ask any questions you may have. Use METAPROTERENOL SULFATE as directed. Do not increase your dose or use this more frequently than directed. Excessive use may lead to a loss of effectiveness while increasing the chance for side effects. Do not stop using METAPROTERENOL SULFATE without first consulting your doctor. If you find yourself using this more than usual, or your symptoms do not improve or worsen after using this, contact your doctor immediately. METAPROTERENOL SULFATE USES: METAPROTERENOL SULFATE works in the lung to dilate breathing passages making breathing easier. It is used to treat acute asthma attacks and bronchospasm in persons with certain lung diseases. METAPROTERENOL SULFATE PRECAUTIONS: Before using METAPROTERENOL SULFATE, tell your doctor your medical history especially of an overactive thyroid, heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, diabetes and of any drug allergies. METAPROTERENOL SULFATE should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if METAPROTERENOL SULFATE is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. METAPROTERENOL SULFATE DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including medication for blood pressure, chest pain, diabetes or depression and of the use of diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. METAPROTERENOL SULFATE OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, headache, tremors, nervousness, weakness, and dizziness. METAPROTERENOL SULFATE NOTES: Do not share METAPROTERENOL SULFATE with others. MISSED METAPROTERENOL SULFATE DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. METAPROTERENOL SULFATE STORAGE: Store the solution below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) protected from light. Do not store in the bathroom. Discard the solution if it turns brown, yellow, pink, cloudy or contains particles. 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. |