Before using ProAir HFA (albuterol sulfate), tell your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any heart conditions, seizure disorders, thyroid problems, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Heart and Cardiovascular Conditions
ProAir HFA should be used with caution in people with cardiovascular disorders, including:
- Heart disease
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- Coronary artery disease
- High blood pressure
Albuterol can affect the heart and blood vessels, which may cause symptoms such as:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Palpitations
- Chest pain
- Increased blood pressure
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience new or worsening heart-related symptoms while using the inhaler.
Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, ProAir HFA may cause side effects. Common side effects may include:
- Tremors or shaking
- Nervousness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
- Cough
- Dry or irritated throat
- Nausea
- Vomiting
More serious side effects may include:
- Chest pain
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Severe dizziness
- Difficulty breathing that worsens after use
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience serious side effects.
Seizure Disorders
If you have a seizure disorder, especially one that is not well controlled, talk to your healthcare provider before using ProAir HFA. In some cases, albuterol may increase the risk of seizures or worsen seizure symptoms.
Thyroid Disease, Diabetes, and High Blood Pressure
Use ProAir HFA with caution if you have:
- Thyroid disorders
- Diabetes
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Albuterol may affect these conditions and could require additional monitoring while you are using the medication.
Worsening Asthma Symptoms
Although ProAir HFA is designed to quickly relieve breathing symptoms, increasing use of a rescue inhaler may be a sign that asthma is becoming less controlled.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly if:
- Your symptoms do not improve after using the inhaler
- Your breathing problems worsen
- You need to use your rescue inhaler more often than usual
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe breathing difficulties or an asthma attack that does not respond to treatment.
Drug Interactions
ProAir HFA may interact with other medications, including:
- Beta-blockers
- Digoxin
- Diuretics (“water pills”)
- Other asthma or breathing medications
Before starting treatment, tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements you take.
Storage Information
Store ProAir HFA at room temperature in a dry place away from excessive heat, direct sunlight, and open flames.
Important safety precautions include:
- Do not puncture the inhaler canister.
- Do not expose the inhaler to high temperatures.
- Do not incinerate the canister.
- Keep the inhaler away from fire or heat sources.
Proper storage helps maintain the safety and effectiveness of the medication.
Regular follow-up appointments can help ensure that ProAir HFA remains safe and effective as part of your asthma or COPD treatment plan.
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