Albuterol Inhalers for Allergy-Induced Asthma

Many people believe that physical exercise is the most common trigger for an asthma attack. In fact, it may surprise you to know that allergy-induced asthma is the most common form of asthma in the United States. In fact 60% of people with asthma suffer from the allergic type.

If you suffer from allergy-induced asthma, breathing in certain substances such as dust, pollen, or animal dander will trigger inflammation and swelling of the airways. Albuterol is a bronchodilator and inhalers containing this medication relax and open constricted airways. This helps reduce breathing difficulties and wheezing associated with an asthma attack. Till date, albuterol is known as the only inhaled drug available in generic form. Trade names include Ventolin, Proventil, and ProAir.

How Do Albuterol Inhalers work?

There’s no cure for allergy-induced asthma, but albuterol can be an effective treatment option for keeping the condition under control for short periods of time. When the inhaler is used, aerosols dilate the airways and relax the bronchial muscles as air passes through the respiratory tract unrestricted. Albuterol is considered to be a short-acting bronchodilator. While it may relieve the symptoms of a sudden attack, it doesn’t control the underlying inflammation associated with allergy-induced asthma.. Therefore, several doses may be needed on a bad day.

The inhaler consists of a small canister that contains a small amount of liquid. A special device called a nebulizer transforms the liquid drug into an aerosol mist that can be inhaled easily by the patient. The frequency of use depends on the severity of your condition. Some people need to use the inhaler every four to six hours if their condition is severe. If for some reason you feel that albuterol is no longer able to keep your allergic reactions and asthma in check, contact your doctor as soon as possible for a possible change in medication.

Each canister usually comes supplied with an average of 200 uses or inhalations. Although it can be hard to keep track, using it more than 200 times should be avoided since the extra doses may not dispense the proper amount of active ingredients. Some of the more expensive types come with a counting device to help you keep track of the number of doses used.

Proceed with Caution

Occasionally when using an albuterol inhaler you may find yourself taking in a higher dosage of medication than expected. This is usually not harmful as long as there is not repeated over-exposure to the medication.

If you experience seizures, chest pains, or an irregular heartbeat this may be a sign that an overdosage has occurred. Seek medical assistance immediately. The severity of the condition should not be ignored as misuse of an albuterol inhaler can lead to extreme situations. These include body tremors, seizures, loss of consciousness and coma.

The most important step is to learn all you can about albuterol inhalers before you begin treatment to prevent the occurrence of any possible adverse reactions. If you have additional questions or concerns, your doctor or pharmacist should be happy to assist you.

About the Author

Amanda Jones is a licensed veterinary technician and an avid researcher of human allergy relief products including albuterol inhalers. She runs a successful website dedicated to debunking various allergy relief products for the benefit of the consumer. Amanda hopes she can decrease the number of pets who need to find new homes by educating pet owners on how they can control their allergies.