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Albuterol in Children

Albuterol is a bronchodilator inhaler used to relax muscles in the airways to allow more air to enter into the lungs. The medication is used in the treatment of bronchospasm in users with reversible obstructive airway disease. As is the case with most inhalers, there are a number of side effects associated with using this drug in children.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • Some of these side effects include nervousness, dizziness, severe headache, insomnia, sore throat, runny nose, hoarseness, mild cough, diarrhea, and muscle pain. While these are considered the most common side effects associated with using Albuterol, they only affect a small number of children.

    Severe Side Effects

    • Unfortunately, there are also a number of severe side effects associated with using this medication in children. Some of these side effects include chest tightness, wheezing, trouble breathing, irregular heartbeat, nervousness, tremors, increased urination, increased thirst, severely high blood pressure, seizure, limp feeling, and leg discomfort. These side effects are also very rare and do not affect a large amount of children.

    Important Safety Information

    • Albuterol has been known to cause severe drowsiness and dizziness in children, and it is strongly recommended that users do not participate in any type of strenuous activity during treatment. If you do not see improvement, or if symptoms worsen after the first seven days of treatment, consult your doctor for an adjusted treatment method. Never throw an empty canister into a flame as they are highly flammable.

    Use

    • Always use Albuterol exactly as prescribed by your doctor and never in dosages that are larger than what has been recommended on the label. Albuterol is administered as an inhaler and should be shaken thoroughly before being used. Slowly breathe in while pushing down on the canister. Once the medication is released, hold it in your lungs for ten seconds before exhaling. Always store the canister with the mouthpiece covered to prevent it from becoming contaminated.

    Warning

    • If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

      If an overdose is suspected, contact the poison control center and head directly to the nearest emergency room.

      Albuterol is meant for treatment of breathing disorders only, and should never be used for any other medical condition unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.

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