Albuterol drug information

Attachment 9 Albuterol drug information

The following content is adapted from the UpToDate content by the research team for the research setting (www.uptodate.com).

Brand Names: US

ProAir Digihaler; ProAir HFA; ProAir RespiClick; Proventil HFA; Ventolin HFA; VoSpire ER [DSC]

What is this drug used for?

• It is used to open the airways in lung diseases where spasm may cause breathing problems.

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take this drug?

• If you are allergic to this drug; any part of this drug; or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell the NIOSH physician about the allergy and what signs you had.

• If you are using another drug like this one. If you are not sure, ask the NIOSH physician

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and

sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell the NIOSH physician or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side

effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Signs of high blood pressure like very bad headache or dizziness, passing out, or change in eyesight.

• Signs of low potassium levels like muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps, or a heartbeat that does not feel normal.

• Chest pain or pressure.

• Fast or abnormal heartbeat.

• This drug may sometimes cause severe breathing problems. This may be life-threatening. When this happens with an inhaler, most of the time it happens right after a dose and after the first use of a new canister or vial of this drug. If you have trouble breathing, breathing that is worse, wheezing, or coughing, get medical help right away.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have

minor side effects. Talk to the NIOSH physician or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Feeling nervous and excitable.

• Dizziness or headache.

• Upset stomach or throwing up.

• Shakiness.

• Throat irritation.

• Runny nose.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects,

talk to the NIOSH physician.

How is this drug best taken?

Use this drug as ordered by the NIOSH physician. Read all information given to you. Follow all

instructions closely.

• For breathing into the lungs.

  • Shake well before use.

  • The NIOSH technician will prime the inhaler before you use it.

  • A spacer will be used with the inhaler for easy use.

  • This inhaler will have a dose counter to keep track of how many doses are left.

How will NIOSH store and/or throw out this drug?

• NIOSH will store at room temperature protected from light and in a dry place.

• NIOSH will throw away unused or expired drugs.

• NIOSH will throw away the inhaler after the most number of sprays have been used, even if it feels like there is more drug in the can.