Precautions

• Certain conditions may be cause complications with albuterol. If you have a heart condition, diabetes, epilepsy, or hyperthyroidism, albuterol may be unsafe. Discuss with your doctor possible alternative therapies. Also, pregnant women should not use albuterol.
  
  

Albuterol use

• Albuterol is administered via inhaler, a pocket-size plastic device that sprays the medication directly into the airways. If it's your first time using the inhaler, or you haven't used it in several weeks, you should prime it first. Do this by shaking vigorously, then shooting three or four sprays into the air. For normal use, also begin by shaking the inhaler. Remove the cap covering the mouthpiece, then exhale as completely as you can. Place your lips around the mouthpiece and push down the medication canister while inhaling slowly. After inhaling, hold your breath for eight to 10 seconds. Exhale slowly. If you feel you need an additional dose, wait at least one minute before administering the medication a second time.
  
  

Inhaler propulsion system

• In 2009, the U.S .government enforced a law that all inhalers must use hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) to propel their medicine. This is an attempt to get rid of the standard chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) propellant inhalers, as these older models are damaging to the environment. The new HFA inhalers are used similarly, but they feel slightly different when you use the medication; the propulsion is less forceful, but the medication is actually being delivered more efficiently.
  
  

Inhaler maintenance

• You should have your inhaler with you at all times; during an acute asthmatic attack, albuterol can save your life. Your inhaler should always be dry and clean, and the mouthpiece cap should always be attached. About once a week, remove the medication canister from the inhaler and run the mouthpiece under warm water. Make sure no water remains in the inhaler, then reattach the mouthpiece cap and the albuterol canister.