Albuterol sulfate is a sterile, coloreless and clear solution used for treating respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic pulmonary obstruction disorder, or COPD, according to RXList. It works by treating the bronchospasm in children as young as the age of two to adults.
During an asthma attack, the bronchial pathways constrict when exposed to an environmental factor such as allergens, chemicals or exercise, according to MedlinePlus. Albuterol sulfate inhalation solution helps to relieve the sudden onset of asthmatic symptoms of wheezing, chest tightness and coughing. Albuterol requires a prescription and should not be taken by individuals with certain conditions. Patients should also consult a physician should symptoms of asthma or COPD appear.
0.021 Percent
Albuterol sulfate inhalation solution comes in a 3 mL, clear, colorless, sterile and preservative-free, aqueous solution in strength of 0.021 percent. This equates to approximately 0.63 mg of albuterol within the polyethylene vial. This strength contains 0.75 mg albuterol sulfate per 3 mL in metered-dose units, according to RXList. To ensure its preservation, it requires storage between 68 to 77 degrees Farenheit and should avoid areas of excessive light and heat.
0.042 Percent
The only other strength of albuterol inhalers is 0.042 percent, which is equivalent to 0.63 mg of albuterol and 0.75 mg of albuterol sulfate, according to RXList. This strength contains a total of 1.5 mg of albuterol sulfate per 3 mL in metered-dose units. If efficacy of this strength provides no relief, asthma and chronic respiratory disease sufferers should contact a medical professional immediately. This often indicates a worsening of asthma, which requires alternate respiratory treatment methods.
Recommended Dosing
During the sudden emergence of symptoms, asthma and chronic respiratory disease sufferers generally require two inhalations repeated every four to six hours, according to Drugs.com. Continuous use of this medication can worsen symptoms and is not recommended. In the prevention of exercise-induced asthma, administering Albuterol 15 to 30 minutes prior to exercise helps to reduce the chances of an asthma attack.
