Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PIRBUTEROL - AEROSOL INHALER

(purr-BYOU-turr-ohl)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Maxair

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 an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, 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.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all drugs you may use, both prescription and nonprescription, including: beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, timolol), all asthma-treating drugs, anti- depressants, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide). It is important to read carefully all labels on over-the-counter preparations, especially those used to treat colds or allergies. Do not use these without first consulting your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, headache, tremors, nervousness, weakness, and dizziness.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

Ask your doctor about what action to take if you should miss a dose. Do not "double-up" the dose.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not puncture.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).