Albuterol helps in the prevention and treatment of chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which is a disease that affects the lungs and airways, according to MedlinePlus. As a fast-acting bronchodilator, albuterol is highly effective in relieving the sudden symptoms of an asthma attack such as wheezing, chest congestion and breathing difficulties. It functions by opening the bronchial air passages to increase the flow of air making it easier to breath. Although it is a common prescription medication, albuterol does have its dangers.
Uncontrollable Shaking, Nervousness and Headache
When taking albuterol, you can experience uncontrollable shaking, nervousness and headache, MedlinePlus says. Uncontrollable shaking arises due to the albuterol relaxing the smooth muscles in the body. Many of these muscles are present in the arms where you will see the majority of the shaking. If you continuously abuse albuterol, shaking can increase to tremors, according to RXList. Nervousness and headache in tandem with uncontrollable shaking is a serious side effect that requires immediate medical attention as this may indicate an overdose, according to Drugs.com. Always follow prescribed dosing amounts set forth by a physician to garner the most efficacy of this medication.
Worsening of Symptoms
Albuterol sulfate should general work up to six hours. Refraining from overusing this medication is essential to avoid worsening of symptoms, warns Drugs.com. It can also cause severe heart problems by increasing the heart rate leading to irregular heartbeats and worsened breathing troubles. This occurs due to abusive or excessive use of the medication in which the bronchial airways are perpetually dialated. This causes an overt hypersensitivity to environmental factors in asthmatics that already have compromised respiratory systems. MayoClinic.com says that using a rescue inhaler such as albuterol more than three times a week indicates the need of a preventative treatment, such as corticosteroids and allergen therapy for those with allergy-induced asthma.
Asthma-Related Death
Since albuterol is a long-acting beta agonist, it often can cover up symptoms that require medical attention. Asthma-related death is a prominent danger for individuals who misuse or excessively use an albuterol inhaler, according to Drugs.com. Continual administration can lower the efficacy of the medication while significantly increasing the chances of asthma complications. Albuterol users should always consult a physician if asthma symptoms worsen or side effects such as chest pounding, severe dizziness or unusual hoarseness appears.
