Health Library

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Albuterol Metered Dose Inhaler (ALBUTEROL (SALBUTAMOL) HFA INHALER - ORAL INHALATION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • prevent asthma attacks
  • asthma
  • chronic lung disease

Brand Name(s): ProAir, Proventil, Ventolin

Generic Name: Albuterol HFA

Instructions

Use the medicine as needed if you experience wheezing or difficulty breathing.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

If the medicine comes in a pouch, keep it in the pouch until you are ready to use it.

Each time you receive a new inhaler, you need to get it ready to use. Shake the inhaler for 5 seconds, point it away from you and then spray into the air. Repeat this 3 more times. This process is called priming the pump and removes any air from the medicine canister.

Shake the inhaler well for 5 seconds before each use.

If you are using more than one puff or more than one inhaled medicine, wait at least 1 minute between puffs.

Keep track of how many times you use the inhaler. Do not use it more than the total number of doses shown on the package.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

If this medicine causes more wheezing or makes it harder to breathe, stop the medicine. Get medical help right away.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

If you have any trouble using the medicine, please tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • coughing
  • dizziness
  • dry mouth
  • headaches
  • hoarseness or throat irritation
  • high blood pressure
  • nausea
  • nervousness
  • shakiness
  • changes in taste or unpleasant taste

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • rarely, a severe episode of asthma may occur
  • chest pain
  • confusion
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • rapid breathing
  • worsening breathing symptoms

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.