This article will explain how the drug Albuterol works, how it is used and what it is used for.
Albuterol is used for people with asthma to help with symptoms of the illness. It facilitates better airflow through the airways. This is why it eases asthma symptoms.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a condition where breathing becomes difficult. This is caused by narrowing of the airways in the throat. Airways are the passages for breathing that allow air to move in and out of the lungs. Asthma is a form of allergy caused by an allergic reaction to some substance the body recognizes as an intruder in the body. Therefore, asthma can be caused by food allergies, breathable allergens or any form of allergy people suffer from.
Airways can become narrower because of:
– Mucus
– Muscle spasms surrounding the airways
– Swelling of the lining of the airways
Symptoms of Asthma:
– Shortness of breath
– Wheezing
– Cough
– Congestion
How does Albuterol Work?
– Albuterol dilates bronchial airways by relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways.
– Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are also diseases that the medicine can be taken for.
– Albuterol works within 15 minutes it is taken and the effects can last for about 6 hours.
– This medicine is used with an aerosol spray administered in the airways directly.
– It can be taken in tablets or syrup form too.
– There can be drug interactions when taking Albuterol which can cause increased heart rate, chest pain or blood pressure.
– When pregnant, Albuterol should not be taken. This is because it is possible that it causes birth defects.
Side effects of Albuterol:
– Nervousness
– Tremors
– Headaches
– Palpitations
– Fast heart rate
– Nausea
– Dizziness
– Heartburn
– Throat problems
– Nosebleeds
– Rash
– Hives
– Swelling
– Diabetes symptoms
This is how the drug Albuterol is used. It is one of the best treatment options for asthma when allergen avoidance is not possible.