Pirbuterol acetate is a medication used to treat such lung diseases as asthma, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It belongs to the category of drugs called beta-agonist bronchodilators and it works to relax your constrictive airways and subsequently, help you breathe. Pirbuterol acetate is an oral inhalation medication. According to the National Library of Medicine, you will typically inhale 400mcg (two inhalations) of pirbuterol acetate every 4 to 6 hours. In some cases, you may require only 200mcg (one inhalation) of this medication to relieve your symptoms.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, pirbuterol acetate typically causes coughing, diarrhea, weakness and headaches. Diarrhea can cause you to be hypokalemic (low blood potassium levels) and dehydrated. Drink 7 to 10 glasses of water each day to hydrate yourself. Symptoms of hypokalemia include muscle weakness, constipation, fatigue and muscle spasms. Eat fruits and vegetables to normalize your blood potassium levels. As an inhalation medication, pirbuterol acetate can also cause dry mouth and throat irritation. This medication can affect your mental state and cause tremors, dizziness and nervousness. These side effects should subside within three days. Call your doctor if these symptoms do not disappear.
Serious Side Effects
According to the National Library of Medicine, pirbuterol acetate can affect the electrical conduction system in your heart. Your heart contains fibers that run from the top to bottom of your heart. These fibers are responsible for gathering electrical charges that help your heart to beat. Your heart may beat erratically or slowly when these electrical disturbances occur. This can result in less blood flow to the different parts of your body. Pirbuterol acetate can also cause paradoxical bronchospasm and asthma exacerbations. Paradoxical bronchospasm refers to a condition in which your airways suddenly narrow. This leads to trouble breathing. Symptoms of asthma exacerbations include difficulty breathing, wheezing and cyanosis, a condition of blue lips and nails due to decreased oxygen. Call 911 if this happens.
Additional Concerns
Avoid pirbuterol acetate if you are hypersensitive to it. You can develop trouble breathing, hives and swelling of your lips or throat. MedlinePlus recommends you tell your physician if you are taking atelenol, labetalol, metoprolol or sotalol. The combination of pirbuterol acetate with these medications can provoke the previously mentioned side effects. Avoid taking pirbuterol acetate if you have heart problems, glaucoma or seizures. Pirbuterol acetate can worsen these medical conditions.
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