How To Use

If using Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) for the prevention of asthma attacks brought on by physical exercise, you need to inhale 2 puffs, 15-30 minutes before exercise.

Clean the inhaler once a day and anytime it appears to be clogged or not working properly.

Ask your doctor for advice on how to use Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) in conjunction with other asthma medicines (including inhaled medication).

Seek immediate medical attention if you need more puffs than usual, if your symptoms get worse or if Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) stops working well.

Avoid contact with your eyes.

Overdose

Potential common side effects of Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) include:

• Fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat
• Severe shaking (tremors)
• Seizures

If you think you have taken too much of this medication, contact your local poison control center or the emergency medical services immediately.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Generic Ventolin (Albuterol), take it as soon as you remember.  If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dosage, you should skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.  Do not double up on this medication to make up for a missed dose.

Notes

You may need regular laboratory or medical tests to chart your progress and check for side effects. Make sure you do not miss any of these appointments.

Avoid allergens or irritants such as smoke, pollen, pet hair or dust, which could make breathing problems worse.

Learn to use a peak flow meter and report any worsening breathing problems to your doctor as soon as possible.

Do not share this medication with others as they may have condition that is not effectively treated with Generic Ventolin (Albuterol).

Storage

Store Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) at room temperature (59-86 degrees F or 15-30 degrees C) and away from light, heat and moisture. Once finished, dispose of the medication in keeping with environmental standards. KEEP THIS AND ALL OTHER MEDICATION OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Important Note

Precautions

• Any allergies
• Heart problems (e.g. irregular heartbeat, angina, heart attacks)
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Low levels of potassium in the blood
• Seizures
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)

If you currently suffer or ever have suffered from any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) or you may need a dosage adjustment.

Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) may cause dizziness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you are sure you can perform these activities safely.

Caution is advised when Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) is used by elderly people as they may be more sensitive to certain side effects of this medication, especially effects on the heart.

Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) is classed as Pregnancy Category C by the FDA, which means it could potentially harm an unborn child. It is advised not to use this medication if you are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment. Discuss your options with your doctor.It is not known whether Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) passes into breast milk and if it could harm a nursing infant. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication while breastfeeding with your doctor.

Drug Interactions

Before taking Generic Ventolin (Albuterol), discuss all other medication you are currently using with your doctor, including:

• MAO inhibitors (e.g. furazolidone, isocarboxazid, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine) 2 weeks before, during, or after treatment with this medication
• Adrenaline-like drugs (e.g. ephedrine, epinephrine)
• Some beta blockers (such as propranolol)
• Digoxin
• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline, nortriptyline)
• Diuretics (e.g. furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide)
• Any medication containing ingredients that could increase heart rate and blood pressure

This is only a partial list and other medication may interact with Generic Ventolin (Albuterol). Inform your doctor of all other prescription and non-prescription medication you are using, including vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, herbal pills and medication prescribed by other doctors. Do not start or stop using any medication without discussing this with your doctor first.

The following common side effects of Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) could occur:

• Nervousness
• Shaking (tremor)
• Dryness or irritation of the mouth or throat
• Cough
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping
• Nausea

The above side effects are usually temporary and mild. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if any of these effects persist or worsen.

Inform your doctor immediately if you experience any of these unlikely but serious side effects:

• Fast or pounding heartbeat
• Muscle cramps or weakness

Seek immediate medical attention if you have any of these rare but very serious side effects:

• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat

In rare cases, Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) could cause sudden and severe worsening of certain breathing problems, such as asthma (Paradoxical Bronchospasm). If you experience sudden wheezing, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Rarely, Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) could also cause a severe allergic reaction. Seek medical attention straightaway if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Rash
• Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

This is only a partial list and other side effects of Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) may occur. Notify your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any side effects other than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.