Breathe Better with Albuterol

Albuterol comes in various forms and strengths, ranging from oral tablets, syrups, aerosols, nebulizers, and dry powders for inhalation.

Two of the most common methods of administration for albuterol are albuterol aerosol and albuterol HFA. While these two types of inhalers have the same effect in treating asthma and COPD, there is a key difference between them.

The main difference lies in the propellant and design. Albuterol aerosol uses chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) propellants, which have been phased out due to environmental concerns. Albuterol HFA uses the more environmentally friendly hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellant.

Aerosol inhalers have a press-and-breathe design, whereas HFA inhalers can feature a breath-actuated or metered-dose design. Due to environmental regulations, CFC-based aerosol inhalers are no longer available in many places, making HFA inhalers the standard replacement.

The best time to take albuterol depends on the condition being treated. For treating exercise-induced bronchospasm, albuterol should be administered 15 to 30 minutes before exercise. Administration of albuterol for exercise-induced bronchospasm typically happens through the use of an aerosol inhaler.

The typical dosage for asthmatic adults with bronchospasm is two inhalations every four to six hours, starting in the morning before breakfast. Some people may only need one inhalation every four hours.

Albuterol has a half-life of approximately 6 hours, meaning that it takes about six hours for the body to eliminate half of a dose. Typically, it takes around five half-lives for a drug to be completely cleared from the system.

After taking albuterol, it remains in the body for roughly 30 hours following the last dose.

An increase in blood pressure is a potential side effect of albuterol, though it is rare. If you do experience high blood pressure after taking albuterol, it should resolve within two to six hours.

If your blood pressure does not return to normal levels, or you experience dizziness or lightheadedness, seek medical attention immediately.

There are some medications that may have a negative interaction if used alongside albuterol.

Beta blockers should not be used with albuterol, as these two medications have opposite effects.

Certain diuretics may also have a dangerous interaction with albuterol, so it’s best to avoid taking them together.

Other medications that should be avoided when using albuterol include antidepressants and antianxiety medications, sleeping pills like doxepin, and drugs used to treat heart failure and heart rhythm conditions.

Albuterol is not a steroid, it’s a beta-agonist. It works by activating beta receptors, primarily in your lungs. This causes them to relax, helping you to breathe easier.

The cost of albuterol can vary depending on several factors, including the brand, dosage form (inhaler, nebulizer solution, etc.), and location.

The price for a generic albuterol inhaler can range from $30 to $60 per inhaler without insurance. Brand-name inhalers or newer formulations may be more expensive, sometimes costing over $100 per inhaler.

Some of the more common side effects that can occur with albuterol include:

• Fast or irregular heart rate
• Chest pain
• Shakiness
• Nervousness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Sore throat
• Runny nose

Mild side effects may resolve on their own within a couple days. If you experience severe side effects or ones that don’t go away, be sure to seek medical attention immediately.

Yes, albuterol does have an expiration date. Like many medications, albuterol can lose its potency and effectiveness over time. It's essential to check the expiration date on the medication label and avoid using albuterol that has expired. Generally, the shelf life of albuterol inhalers is typically around 12 to 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored properly.

Using expired albuterol may not provide the intended relief for asthma or other respiratory conditions, and it could potentially be less effective or even harmful. If you have expired albuterol or are unsure about its efficacy, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist for guidance on proper disposal and replacement.

LifeMD offers patients access to licensed healthcare providers who can offer guidance on healthcare concerns. Through our virtual platform, you can schedule same-day appointments and meet with a medical professional from the comfort of your home.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe you a medication if appropriate, and order it to your local pharmacy for your convenience. Skip the waiting room with LifeMD, make an appointment today to get started.