• Basic Info
• Top Questions
• Clinical Info
• Interactions

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Symptoms of an albuterol overdose may include angina or chest pain, irregular heartbeats or a fluttering heart, seizures, tremor, weakness, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

What should I avoid while taking albuterol?

Avoid situations that may worsen your respiratory condition such as exercising in cold, dry air; smoking; breathing in dust; and exposure to allergens such as pet fur.

What are the possible side effects of albuterol?

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or

• chest pain or irregular heartbeats.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take albuterol and talk to your doctor if you experience

• headache;

• dizziness or lightheadedness;

• insomnia;

• tremor or nervousness;

• sweating;

• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; or

• dry mouth.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect albuterol?

Before taking albuterol, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

• a beta-blocker such as atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), propranolol (Inderal), acebutolol (Sectral), bisoprolol (Zebeta), carteolol (Cartrol), carvedilol (Coreg), labetalol (Normodyne, Trandate), nadolol (Corgard), or pindolol (Visken);
• a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), amoxapine (Asendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), imipramine (Tofranil), or protriptyline (Vivactil);
• a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate);

• another oral or inhaled bronchodilator; or

• caffeine, diet pills, or decongestants.

You may not be able to take albuterol, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medications listed above.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with albuterol or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.