• Tell your doctor if you have or have a history of any heart disease, high blood pressure, rapid/uneven heart rate, convulsion episodes, diabetes, a hormonal condition called hyperthyroidism or low levels of potassium in your blood.

• Talk to your doctor if your symptoms worsen or if you feel that symptoms are no longer being controlled by the medicine.

• Do not drive or operate machinery as albuterol may cause trembling or shaking of hands and feet as well as dizziness.

• Tell your doctor if you are or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

• Should not be given to patients who are allergic to albuterol or any of its ingredients.

• Should not be given to patients with underlying heart diseases.

Frequently asked questions for Albuterol

Albuterol

Q. What would happen if I take higher than the recommended dose of Albuterol?

Taking a higher than the recommended dose of Albuterol may cause seizures, chest pain, nervousness, headache, dry mouth, nausea, dizziness and lack of energy. High doses of Albuterol may also cause fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat, uncontrollable shaking of any part of the body and difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. In any such case, seek immediate medical attention.

Q. Is it safe to take Albuterol if I have heart disease?

Yes, Albuterol is considered safe, but its use depends on the severity of your heart problem. However, it would be best to consult your doctor before taking Albuterol. If you experience chest pain or any other symptom of worsening heart disease while taking Albuterol, you should seek immediate medical advice.

Q. Being a diabetic, what should I remember while taking Albuterol?

Albuterol may cause blood sugar levels to rise. Therefore, your doctor may adjust your dose of insulin or antidiabetic medicines. Keep a regular check on your blood glucose levels and do not miss any appointments.

Q. I have started using Albuterol and I am experiencing headaches and shakiness. Is this because of Albuterol and will these go away?

Yes, it could be due to Albuterol. Feeling shaky is a common side effect of Albuterol which goes away after some time. For headaches, drink plenty of water, get sufficient rest and avoid alcohol. Usually, headaches go away after a week. If they persist for a long time, contact your doctor.

Q. When should I take Albuterol?

Use Albuterol as and when you need it. Albuterol relieves the symptoms of asthma like coughing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest. You can also take it to prevent asthma attacks in circumstances where you know it may occur (e.g., after strenuous exercise or unavoidable exposure to allergen).

Q. Can I smoke if I have been prescribed Albuterol?

No, you should not smoke while taking Albuterol. Smoking irritates the lungs. The medicine may make breathing more difficult, especially in patients who have asthma. Take advice from your doctor if you are finding it hard to avoid smoking.