Brand name:
Alupent
Pronounced: AL-yew-pent
Generic name: Metaproterenol sulfate
Why is Alupent prescribed?
Alupent is a bronchodilator prescribed for the prevention and relief
of bronchial asthma and bronchial spasms (wheezing) associated with bronchitis
and emphysema. Alupent Inhalation Solution is also used to treat acute
asthmatic attacks in children 6 years of age and older.
Most important fact about Alupent prescriptions without
Alupent's effects last up to 6 hours. It should not be used more frequently
than your doctor recommends.
Increasing the number of doses can be dangerous and may actually make
symptoms of asthma worse. Fatalities have occurred with excessive use
of Alupent.
If the dose your doctor recommends does not provide relief of your symptoms,
if your symptoms become worse, or if side effects occur, seek medical
attention immediately.
How should you take Alupent?
Take Alupent exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
If you miss a dose...
Take the dose as soon as you remember. Take any remaining doses for
the day at equal intervals thereafter. Do not increase the total for
the day or take 2 doses at the same time.
Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature. Protect from light and excessive humidity.
Keep out of reach of children.
Alupent side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Alupent.
* Side effects may include:
Bad taste in mouth, cough, dizziness, headache, high blood pressure, nausea,
nervousness, rapid or throbbing heartbeat, stomach and intestinal upset,
throat irritation, tremors, vomiting, worsening or aggravation of asthma
Side effects can occur when a new aerosol container is used, even though
you have had no trouble with Alupent in the past. Replacing the container
may solve the problem.
Why should Alupent not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Alupent
or similar drugs, such as Proventil, you should not take Alupent. Make
sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.
Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take this medication
if you have an irregular, rapid heart rate.
Special warnings about Alupent
When taking Alupent, you should not use other inhaled medications (called
sympathomimetics) before checking with your doctor. Only your doctor
can determine the sufficient amount of time between inhaled medications.
A single dose of nebulized Alupent used to treat an acute attack of
asthma may temporarily relieve symptoms but not completely stop the attack.
Consult your doctor before using Alupent if you have a heart condition,
a convulsive disorder such as epilepsy, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism,
or diabetes mellitus. Alupent can cause significant changes in blood
pressure.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Alupent
If Alupent is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Alupent with the following:
MAO inhibitors (antidepressant drugs such as Nardil and Parnate)
Bronchodilators such as Ventolin and Proventil inhalers
Tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil and Tofranil
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Alupent during pregnancy have not been adequately studied.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.
It is not known whether Alupent appears in breast milk. If Alupent is
essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing
your baby until your treatment is finished.
Recommended dosage for Alupent
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences.
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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