Albuterol is a fast-acting medication for sudden breathing difficulties from conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It functions as a “rescue” inhaler, providing immediate relief when symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing flare up. This medication helps open the airways.
How Albuterol is Typically Used
Albuterol is a bronchodilator that relaxes the smooth muscles in the airways of the lungs, widening the air passages. This quickly relieves symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Most albuterol inhalers deliver 90 micrograms (mcg) of medication per puff.
For adults and children aged 4 years and older, a common dosage for acute asthma symptoms is two inhalations every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Some may only require one inhalation every 4 hours. To prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm, the dose is two inhalations 15 to 30 minutes before physical activity. Albuterol is for “as needed” use to address sudden symptoms, not for daily preventative treatment.
When More Doses Are Needed
Using albuterol more frequently than prescribed can signal that a respiratory condition, such as asthma, is not well controlled. If you use your rescue inhaler more than twice a week for symptoms unrelated to exercise, or more often than directed during an exacerbation, contact your healthcare provider.
During a severe, acute attack, a doctor or emergency action plan might direct additional doses, such as 4 to 8 puffs every 20 minutes for up to three doses, or nebulized treatments of 2.5-5 mg every 20 minutes for three doses. If symptoms do not improve, worsen, or your inhaler seems less effective, seek immediate medical advice. Your current treatment plan may need adjustments, potentially including additional anti-inflammatory medications.
Understanding Albuterol Overuse
Taking albuterol too often or in excessive amounts can lead to various side effects. Common effects include nervousness, tremors, headache, and an increased heart rate. Individuals may also experience sleeplessness, nausea, or throat irritation. These effects are more likely to occur with higher doses.
Chronic overuse of albuterol can mask the severity of a worsening underlying respiratory condition. This reliance can delay medical intervention, potentially leading to more severe health issues or even paradoxical bronchospasm, where breathing difficulties worsen after using the medication. If you need your albuterol inhaler more frequently, consult your doctor for a re-evaluation of your treatment regimen.