List of Nebulizer Medications

List of Nebulizer Medications
Photo Credit thorax x-ray of the lungs image by JoLin from Fotolia.com

A nebulizer is a machine that converts certain medications into a mist that can be easily inhaled. This allows the medication to reach the airways rapidly. Many people who suffer from asthma use nebulizers when they are having difficulty breathing and wheezing. Using nebulizer medications can help manage such symptoms.

Budesonide

Budesonide is an oral inhalation medication used to manage such symptoms as wheezing, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Asthma and lung problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can lead to these symptoms, says MedlinePlus. Specifically, budesonide is a corticosteroid medication that reduces the inflammation in the airways.

Budesonide's common effects include cough, stomach pain, neck pain, trouble falling asleep and a dry mouth or throat. Other common symptoms include difficult speech and neck pain. Seek a doctor's help when budesonide's effects last for more than 6 to 7 days.

Budesonide's serious effects include a sore throat, fever, strange bleeding or bruising, muscle weakness and muscle aches. Its other symptoms include swelling of the ankles, legs or face, difficulty urinating and white spots or sores in the mouth. Call a physician immediately when budesonide causes these effects.

A change in dosage may be necessary if you are taking oral corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, phenobarbital, estrogen and theophylline.

Ipatropium

Ipatropium is an inhalation medication used to prevent sudden constriction of the airways called bronchospasms. Bronchospasms occur in such respiratory diseases as asthma, bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Drugs.com says that ipatropium's common effects include headache, dizziness, a dry mouth and a cough. Ipatropium can also lead to blurry vision, stomach problems, nausea and hoarseness. Inform a physician if ipatropium's side effects persist for more than 5 to 7 days.

Albuterol and Ipatropium

Albuterol and ipatropium serve as bronchodilators to relax the airway and increase the air to the lungs, says Drugs.com. Like ipatropium, this combination medication serves to prevent bronchospasm.

Albuterol and ipatropium's common effects include a headache, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, a cough, stuffy nose, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. This medication can also lead to blurry vision, constipation, nervousness and a dry mouth. Call a doctor if these effects last for more than 6 to 7 days.

This medication's serious effects include chest pain, a rapid or pounding heartbeat, swelling of the ankles or feet and pain with urination. Sometimes, chest tightness, wheezing and difficulty breathing can ensue soon after using albuterol and ipatropium. These drugs can also lead to high blood pressure. Signs of high blood pressure include headache, difficulty concentrating, seizures and numbness. Go to the hospital when these symptoms appear.

A change in dosage may be necessary when suffering from glaucoma, liver or kidney disease, diabetes, an overactive thyroid and seizures.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: Mar 5, 2011

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