Common Side Effects of Salbutamol

Common Side Effects of Salbutamol
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Salbutamol is a brand name for the medication albuterol. Albuterol is a medication that works by activating specific proteins called beta-2 adrenergic receptors. Activation of these proteins causes the airways to relax, which lets them expand. As a result, Salbutamol is typically used to treat such respiratory conditions as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of Salbutamol include anxiety, nervousness, muscle tremors, and headache. Other mild side effects are dizziness, insomnia, unusual sweating (hyperhidrosis) as well as feeling uncertain of your surroundings. These side effects are not considered to be serious. If they worsen or become too uncomfortable, however, consult your physician.

Less Common Side Effects

Less common side effects include irritation and dryness of the mouth and throat. In some bases this can also lead to irritation of the bronchial tubes, which can cause a cough. Salbutamol can also cause a sensation of being light-headed. According to Rxlist.com, Salbutamol can sometimes cause migraines, infection of the skin, and chest pain, those these are rare. Salbutamol can also sometimes make asthma worse, and can also cause otitis media (an ear infection). Approximately 2 percent of patients experience swelling of the lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy).

Severe Side Effects

Salbutamol can also have effects on the heart and the rest of the cardiovascular system. One potential adverse effect of Salbutamol use is a rapid and/or irregular heartbeat. Salbutamol use can also cause elevated blood pressure, fainting, muscle cramps, as well as fatigue, difficulty urinating, and altered mental state. These side effects are serious and can indicate that your body is experiencing a severe adverse reaction to Salbutamol. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: Aug 18, 2011

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