Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: BITOLTEROL INHALATION SOLUTION - ORAL (bye-TOLL-ter-ohl)
BRAND NAME(S): Tornalate
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to prevent and treat asthma attacks and other breathing problems.
HOW TO USE: Learn how to properly use this drug, and maintain the breathing device. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. The medicine is generally breathed in over a 15 minute period or as directed. Breathe quietly and slowly from the machine for the maximum benefit. Use as directed (generally only as needed). Dosage is based on your condition and response. Do not use more of this medication than prescribed. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing symptoms worsen, or if your previously effective drugs do not work as well. Over time, this drug may not work as well as it did at the beginning of use. Consult your doctor or pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Shakiness, nervousness, headache, dizziness (and rarely drowsiness) or throat irritation may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: unusually fast/slow/irregular heartbeat. Very unlikely but report promptly: chest discomfort, tingling or numbness, mood changes, unsteadiness, cough. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies, heart diseases, high blood pressure, thyroid problems (hyperthyroid), diabetes, seizure disorders. Limit alcohol intake as it may aggravate drug side effects. Caution is advised when performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g., driving), even though drowsiness is very unlikely. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Asthma - Read about asthma signs and symptoms, statistics, medication, inhalers, and management, and triggers (or what causes an attack). Get the facts about asthma in children and exercise-induced asthma.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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