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pirbuterol-aerosol inhaler, Maxair

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GENERIC NAME: PIRBUTEROL - AEROSOL INHALER (purr-BYOU-turr-ohl)

BRAND NAME(S): Maxair

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This drug relaxes the smooth muscle in the lungs and dilates airways to improve breathing. It is used in the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. The inhaler enables the drug to reach deep into the lungs for maximum benefit.

HOW TO USE: This medicine comes with step-by-step illustrated directions for use. These are available from your pharmacist. The inhaler must be shaken well before using. Place the squeeze-activated canister near your mouth and exhale. Depress the spray as you inhale deeply. At the end of inhalation, hold your breath for a few seconds (10 seconds is preferable) to allow the drug to be absorbed. If more than one inhalation is prescribed, wait at least one full minute between inhalations. Rinse mouth after using this to help prevent dryness and throat irritation. Use this medication as directed. Do not increase your dose or use this more frequently than directed. Excessive use may lead to a loss of effectiveness while increasing the chance for side effects. Do not stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor. If you find yourself using this more than usual, or your symptoms do not improve or worsen after using this, contact your doctor immediately.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dry mouth, irritated throat, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, loss of appetite, altered taste sensation, restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, trembling, and sweating may occur but should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute. Inform your doctor if you experience: chest pain, rapid heartbeat. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. 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: Before using this drug tell your doctor your medical history, including: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, seizures, diabetes, drug allergies. This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if 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. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.