Proventil

You may have an immediate, serious allergic reaction to the first dose of albuterol, causing symptoms such as hives, rash, and swelling of the mouth, throat, lips, and tongue. The drug has been known to cause life-threatening bronchial spasms, especially with the first dose from a new canister or vial. There have also been rare reports of skin reddening and peeling in children taking albuterol syrup.

Do not exceed your doctor's recommended dose of albuterol. If you need more than usual, check with your doctor. Your asthma may be getting unstable, and you may need another medication. Do not, however, change your medication without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Proventil

Use albuterol inhalation aerosol with other aerosol bronchodilators only if your doctor recommends it.

If albuterol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining albuterol with the following:

Antidepressants classified as MAO inhibitors, such as Nardil and Parnate, and tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil, Norpramin, Pamelor, and Tofranil.
Beta blockers (heart and blood pressure drugs such as Inderal, Tenormin, and Sectral)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Drugs similar to albuterol, such as Alupent, Brethine, Isuprel, and epinephrine
Drugs that lower potassium levels (water pills such as Lasix or HydroDIURIL)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of albuterol during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether albuterol appears in breast milk. If this drug is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing your baby until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Inhalation Aerosol

If you are being treated for a sudden or severe bronchial spasm or the prevention of asthma symptoms, the usual dosage of albuterol inhalation aerosol is 2 inhalations repeated every 4 to 6 hours. More frequent use is not recommended. In some individuals, 1 inhalation every 4 hours may be sufficient.