Get an Albuterol Prescription Online

Albuterol, also known as Salbutamol, is a short-acting bronchodilator that is classified as a beta-2 agonist. It is primarily used to treat and prevent bronchospasm, which is the narrowing of airways in the lungs. Bronchospasm can be associated with conditions like asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

The medication functions by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, thereby opening them up and making it easier to breathe. Albuterol can be delivered via an inhaler, which offers rapid relief from acute symptoms, making it commonly referred to as a “rescue inhaler.” It can also be administered through a nebulizer.

In fact, it’s one of the most prescribed inhalation medications in the United States, with over 60 million prescriptions annually.

While the inhalational route (either via metered dose inhalers or nebulizers) is the most common form of Albuterol administration, there are also oral forms (pills or liquid) of it. However, they are less commonly prescribed because the inhalation form acts directly on the lungs and is typically faster and more effective with fewer systemic side effects.

In the U.S., Albuterol is often prescribed under brand names such as Ventolin, ProAir, and Proventil, among others. It is approved for use in both adults and children, typically those aged 4 and older.

What Is Albuterol Prescribed For?

Doctors prescribe Albuterol primarily as a short-acting treatment for patients who experience lung diseases like bronchitis and asthma and who experience what is known as bronchospasms, which happen when the muscles that line the airways in your lungs (the bronchi) tighten.

This tightening results in wheezing, coughing, and other symptoms. Albuterol can also be used to prevent bronchospasms brought on by exercise as opposed to people who only experience long-term lung conditions.

How Does Albuterol Work?

Albuterol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-2 adrenergic agonists or bronchodilators. These medications are commonly inhaled through the mouth to act directly on the bronchial tubes in the lungs.

Albuterol works by relaxing the smooth muscles lining the airways, facilitating the opening of these air passages. This provides relief from asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties triggered by external factors such as exercise or exposure to irritants.

When administered via an inhaler, relief typically begins within minutes, and the effects can last between 4 to 6 hours.

What Are the Side Effects of Albuterol?

As with any form of medicine, there can be side effects. Some of the most common side effects of Albuterol may include the following:

• Dizziness
• Tremors
• Feeling nervous or shaky
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Irritations in the chest, such as chest pain or a fast heartbeat
• Experiencing pain when urinating
• Headaches, back pain, or body aches
• Sore throats, coughs, sinus pains, or a runny and stuffy nose

Other symptoms that are rarely occurring but are worth noting include:

• Hypotension, known as low blood pressure
• Elevated blood pressure
• Allergic reactions such as hives
• Angioedema, which is an area of swelling that may occur in the face, tongue, abdomen, larynx, or arms and legs

There can also be reactions based on signs of low potassium, including irregular heartbeat, constipation, leg cramps, increased urination, tingling, and muscle weakness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Albuterol

Who Should Not Take Albuterol?

While Albuerol is widely used and believed to be generally safe, there are some patients who should not take this medication. Some examples include those who:

• Have an allergic reaction to Albuterol or any other components of the drug.
• Experience heart conditions, such as tachyarrhythmias or severe heart failure.
• Have hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland).
• Have high blood pressure.
• Have a seizure disorder, such as epilepsy.
• Have diabetes

The list is not exhaustive. Also, not all of these conditions may be contraindications for the use of Albuterol.

Your doctor should assess your medical history and current condition to determine whether Albuterol is a suitable treatment for you.

What are the Most Common Side Effects of Albuterol?

The most common side effects of Albuterol include dizziness, tremors, nervousness or shakiness, upset stomach, vomiting, cough or throat irritation, and headaches.

What to Avoid While Taking Albuterol?

While taking Albuterol, you should avoid the following:

• Similar inhaled medications such as isoproterenol, levalbuterol, metaproterenol, or pirbuterol.
• Drinking alcohol
• Overusing the drug
• Caffeine and other stimulants

It is also advised that pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss with their doctor before taking Albuterol as it may not be suitable for them.

Also, albuterol might interact with other medications, so it’s important to consult your doctor before taking any new medication while using albuterol.

What Is the Typical Dosage for Albuterol?

For most people using an inhaler, the typical dosage is one to two inhalations every four to six hours as needed for symptom relief.

The exact dosage will depend on your condition, age, and other factors. It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor and the directions on the medication label when taking Albuterol.

How Long Does It Take for Albuterol to Work?

Albuterol is a fast-acting medication, when inhaled via an inhaler or nebulizer, Albuterol typically starts to work within 5 to 15 minutes after administration.

The bronchodilating (airway-opening) effects of Albuterol generally peak within 60 to 90 minutes and can last for about 4 to 6 hours, depending on the individual and the specific formulation used.

Can You Buy Albuterol Over-The-Counter (OTC)?

No, Albuterol is not available over-the-counter (OTC). It is a prescription medication and can only be legally obtained with a valid doctor’s prescription.

Can You Get Albuterol Online?

Yes, you can get a prescription for Albuterol online with DrHouse. The physicians will assess your condition and determine if Albuterol is the right medication for you. If they deem it to be an appropriate treatment option for you, they will issue an online prescription which can then be filled at any pharmacy of your choice.

Can I Get a Refill for Albuterol From DrHouse?

Yes, you can get a refill for your albuterol prescription from DrHouse. During your appointment, your provider will evaluate your condition, medical history, and existing prescriptions before determining whether a refill is appropriate. If deemed necessary, your provider will write you a new prescription for albuterol.

For more detailed information about Albuterol, you can refer to the following sources:

• Ventolin prescription label, Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
• Ventolin HFA, Ventolin.com.
• Albuterol, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
• Albuterol, MedlinePlus.

The content on this page has been medically reviewed for accuracy and comprehensiveness by Amy Dougherty, FNP-BC, AGAC