![]() The instructions for individual inhalers are provided in their packages. How do I use albuterol and levalbuterol inhalers? They are not intended for everyday use as long-term maintenance treatment. Taking albuterol 15 to 30 minutes before you exercise can help prevent breathing issues.īoth medications are meant to be used as needed for asthma- or COPD-related breathing problems. Albuterol inhalers are also FDA approved for exercise-induced bronchospasms or difficulty breathing during intense physical exercise. When are albuterol and levalbuterol inhalers used for asthma and COPD?īoth albuterol and levalbuterol inhalers can be prescribed to people ages 4 years and older with bronchospasms caused by asthma or COPD. Once activated by the medication, the receptors signal the airways to relax and open up, making breathing much easier. These medications attach to receptors (chemical binding sites) in the airways. Trouble breathing - a hallmark in asthma and COPD - is caused by the bronchi tightening ( bronchospasm).Īlbuterol and levalbuterol belong to the class of medications called short-acting beta agonists (SABAs). These are called the bronchial tubes, or bronchi. When you breathe, air travels through many different tubes within your lungs, which eventually brings oxygen to your bloodstream. This rescue inhaler also has a generic version available. Xopenex HFA is the only currently available brand name for levalbuterol. Proventil HFA - generic version available The following are brand names of albuterol inhalers: DPIs can be helpful for people who have trouble timing their breaths with traditional inhalers, such as children and people with mobility issues. These are called dry powder inhalers (DPIs). Some deliver the medication using a fine powder instead. Not all rescue inhalers use propellants, though. This is a propellant which turns the medication into a fine mist that you can inhale. With some, you’ll see the abbreviation HFA, which stands for hydrofluoroalkane. They work similarly, but they come in many different inhaler versions. There are two rescue inhaler medications that are commonly used in the U.S.: albuterol and levalbuterol. What types of rescue inhalers are available? And their effects typically last for about 4 to 6 hours. ![]() ![]() They kick in within minutes of taking them. Rescue inhalers work by relaxing and opening the airways. For people with asthma, they may refer to this as an asthma attack. Both asthma and COPD can cause sudden difficulty breathing, called an exacerbation. What is a rescue inhaler?Ī rescue inhaler is an inhaler that contains a fast-acting medication to help with sudden trouble breathing. Read on to learn more about their differences and similarities. There are several prescription options on the market, and they contain either albuterol or levalbuterol. While the specific medications can vary, people with asthma or COPD often require a rescue inhaler to help when they have sudden difficulty breathing. This lowers the possibility of side effects and interactions. Inhalers tend to be a go-to since the medication is released directly into the lungs and doesn’t get absorbed much by the rest of the body. They usually require long-term treatment with medication. Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) are the two most common lung conditions in the U.S. ![]()
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