Ventolin Inh Soln 0.083%,3ml, 25's

• Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, carvedilol): May block the bronchodilatory effect of albuterol and produce severe bronchospasm, especially in patients with asthma. Non-selective beta-blockers should generally be avoided.
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) and Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): May potentiate the cardiovascular effects of albuterol (e.g., increased heart rate, blood pressure). Use with extreme caution.

• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide): May exacerbate ECG changes and/or hypokalemia associated with high doses of beta-agonists.
• Digoxin: Albuterol may decrease serum digoxin levels. Monitor digoxin levels.
• Other sympathomimetics: Concomitant use may potentiate adverse cardiovascular effects.

• Increased wheezing or shortness of breath (paradoxical bronchospasm)
• Chest tightness
• Cough
• Palpitations or rapid heart rate
• Tremor or nervousness
• Dizziness
• Headache

Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Albuterol has been shown to be teratogenic in mice and rabbits at high doses. Clinical experience suggests it is generally safe for use during pregnancy when needed for asthma control, as uncontrolled asthma poses greater risks to the mother and fetus.

L3 (Moderately safe). Albuterol is excreted in human milk. However, due to its short half-life and low oral bioavailability, significant infant exposure is unlikely. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor the infant for irritability or tremor.

Widely used and generally safe in children aged 2 years and older. Dosing is weight-based for younger children. Proper nebulizer technique and supervision are crucial. Monitor for side effects such as tremor, nervousness, and tachycardia, which may be more pronounced in children.

Use with caution in elderly patients, particularly those with cardiovascular disease, as they may be more susceptible to the cardiovascular adverse effects (e.g., tachycardia, palpitations, hypertension) of sympathomimetic amines. Start with the lowest effective dose and titrate carefully.

• Albuterol inhalation solution is a 'rescue' medication for acute bronchospasm, not a maintenance therapy for daily asthma control unless specifically prescribed for severe, persistent asthma.
• Patients should be educated on the correct use of the nebulizer and the importance of proper technique for optimal drug delivery.
• Increased frequency of albuterol use (e.g., more than twice a week, not including exercise-induced bronchospasm) is a key indicator of poorly controlled asthma and warrants reassessment of the patient's asthma action plan and maintenance therapy.
• Paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening of wheezing or shortness of breath immediately after use) is a rare but serious adverse effect; discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
• Patients should be advised to rinse their mouth after use to minimize local side effects and potential for oral candidiasis, though this is less common with nebulized solutions than with inhaled corticosteroids.

• Levalbuterol (Xopenex): R-isomer of albuterol, may have fewer side effects (e.g., less tachycardia, tremor) in some patients.
• Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) (e.g., salmeterol, formoterol): Used for maintenance therapy, never monotherapy in asthma.
• Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) (e.g., fluticasone, budesonide): Cornerstone of asthma maintenance therapy.
• Short-acting muscarinic antagonists (SAMAs) (e.g., ipratropium): Used for COPD or as an alternative bronchodilator in asthma.
• Systemic corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone): Used for acute severe exacerbations.