Albuterol is a rapid-relief treatment for symptoms of bronchospasm, as experienced in asthma, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Though also available as tablets and intravenous fluid, the vast majority of albuterol use is via aerosol inhaler or nebulizer.

Also known as salbutamol, albuterol has been marketed under a variety of brand names over the years, including Proventil, ProAir, Ventolin, and others. In most parts of the world it's now possible to buy albuterol in the less-expensive generic form.

It's also possible to buy albuterol in combination with other medications which help to improve breathing, such as Combivent Inhalers, which contain both albuterol and iprotropium bromide.

Fast Relief with Albuterol

Conditions such as asthma and COPD cause constriction of the airways, making breathing very difficult and often producing a wheezing sound or excessive coughing. Albuterol quickly relaxes the airways, allowing the victim to breathe easier. Inhalers are small, light, easy to maintain, and can be used discreetly.

Administering albuterol by inhaler is fairly straightforward:

• Shake the inhaler before use.
• Inhale 1 to 2 puffs as needed every 3 to 4 hours.
• Hold each puff in for several seconds.
• After exhaling, try to relax and breathe normally.
• Breathing should begin improving within 5 minutes.
• If breathing does not improve or worsens, medical attention should be sought.

Nebulizers are a little more complicated and not as convenient when out and about, as they require equipment (nebulizer and air compressor), a power source, and vials of medication. It's also more difficult to regulate doses if using less than an entire vial, and nearly impossible to use discreetly. However, many patients find delivery via nebulizer is quite a bit more effective than by inhaler.

In either case, if albuterol fails to work quickly, seek emergency treatment.

HFA Alternatives

Since many countries have banned the standard CFC propellent in inhalers, most albuterol manufacturers have converted to HFA propellents, making it nearly impossible to buy albuterol with CFC propellent.

Unfortunately many patients have found that HFA inhalers are not nearly as effective; in rarer cases HFA may make symptoms even worse. CFC bans have also made traditional epinephrine inhalers very difficult to acquire, leaving few options for those who find albuterol inhalers less effective, even when CFC propelled.

Many individuals who find either CFC or HFA albuterol ineffective have considerably better results with nebulized albuterol; definitely worth a try if inhalers provide little relief. Liquid epinephrine for use in nebulizers is also available in some areas.

Precautions & Adverse Effects

Most patients use albuterol with only mild side effects, similar to consuming too much caffeine:

• Tremor or shaking
• Feeling anxious
• Flushing or hot flashes
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Muscle cramps
• Restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Weakness or dizziness
• Dry mouth

Some individuals have stronger reactions, however, which may be cause for concern. If new to albuterol use, be alert for rapid or uneven heartbeat; extreme weakness, dizziness or unconsciousness; unexplained changes in blood pressure; severe or frequent muscle cramps (which may indicate low levels of potassium, a condition which can have dangerous consequences) or any other unusual or alarming symptoms. Seek advice from a doctor before continuing treatment.

Mixing albuterol with other fast-acting asthma or COPD treatments, or other strong stimulants such as amphetamines, can exacerbate side effects.

More for Less at Kiwi Drug

At Kiwi Drug you can buy albuterol for significantly less than at traditional brick & mortar pharmacies -- and without the added expense and hassle of a visiting a doctor for a prescription.

You'll save even more when you buy albuterol in packs of 3 to 24 inhalers, and you'll breathe easier knowing you've got plenty of spares!