Albuterol sulfate is a medication used to prevent and treat bronchospasms, a condition in which your airways tighten without warning. This can severely compromise your breathing and even lead to death. Bronchospasm is a common manifestation of asthma. The National Library of Medicine indicates that albuterol sulfate belongs to a class of medicines called sympathomimetic amines. It is available as an oral (by mouth) inhalation medication and you will typically inhale 2.5mg (one vial) of albuterol sulfate three to four times a day.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, albuterol sulfate's common side effects include nausea, nervousness, vomiting, a rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), nasal congestion and respiratory infections such as the common cold or flu. In a placebo-controlled study of 65 patients taking albuterol, the National Library of Medicine reported that 10.7 percent developed tremors and 3.1 percent developed a headache, trouble sleeping and high blood pressure. Also, 3.1 percent developed a cough and nausea. Tell your doctor when albuterol sulfate's common side effects do not subside within one to two weeks.
Serious Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine indicates that albuterol sulfate can lead to paradoxical bronchospasm. This is referred to as a paradox because albuterol sulfate is supposed to dilate your airways rather than constrict them. Also, albuterol sulfate can be potentially fatal when taken in excessive amounts. Drugs.com says that albuterol sulfate can also cause palpitations (pounding heartbeat), high blood pressure (hypertension) and breathing problems. A severe headache, chest pain and visual problems are symptoms that indicate high blood pressure. Unfortunately, excessive pressure on your blood vessel walls can increase the incidence of a stroke or heart attack (myocardial infarction) if hypertension is chronic and untreated. It is crucial that you tell your doctor if albuterol sulfate causes any of the aforementioned manifestations.
Other Concerns
Difficulty breathing and tongue or facial swelling are potentially fatal manifestations that can occur if you are hypersensitive to albuterol sulfate. Do not take this medication if you suffer from a known allergy to this drug. Prior to taking this medication, inform your doctor about your medical history. Albuterol sulfate may exacerbate heart or thyroid problems, high blood pressure or diabetes. Notify your physician if you have those conditions. Antidepressants such as phenelzine, digoxin and terbutaline are a few medications that may interact with albuterol sulfate. Bring a list of all the medications you are taking to your doctor's visit, and she will check whether any of them interact with albuterol sulfate.
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