How to Use Albuterol Nebulizer?
Can you give an albuterol nebulizer every 2 hours:- A device that turns a liquid medicine into a mist that can be easily inhaled is called a nebulizer. The nebulizer is prescribed to patients with asthma, COPD and other lung issues. There are certain guidelines that one should be aware of before initiating this drug. The listed instructions will guide the patient in using the device efficiently.
- It is imperative to wash the hands thoroughly before coming in contact with medicine or nebulizer.
- One may refer to the leaflet provided in the packaging to know the accurate way of assembling the nebulizer and attaching the mask, tubing and mouthpiece with it.
- Now, you may open the albuterol sulfate foil and check its colour, as it should be strictly clear and colourless. If it is cloudy, avoid utilizing it and dispose of it carefully.
- In the medicine cup, add albuterol sulfate according to the amount that your doctor recommended.
- Connect the nebulizer with an electric source and turn it on for use.
- Sit back in a comfortable position that gives more room for easier breathing.
- Hold the mouthpiece over the nose and mouth using one hand so that you can hold the medicine cup upright with the other hand to help the medication pass through the nebulizer.
- Take deep and slow breaths and continue breathing through the mask. You must wait till all the medicine goes through inhaling. The whole procedure may last between 10-15 minutes.
- After using the nebulizer, you must disconnect the parts as per the instructions provided. To make it more hygienic and germ-free. It is best if you clean and disinfect the nebulizer and face mask appropriately.
How often can you give albuterol nebulizer treatments to patients?
Patients prescribed with this nebulizer must have questions like, can you give an albuterol nebulizer every 2 hours? However, the number of times the albuterol nebulizer is given or used will wholly depend on the age and severity of the condition of the patient. The dosage amount is different for every age group. The albuterol sulfate comes in various dosage strengths, including 0.083%, 0.5%, 0.63 mg, and 1.25 mg.
- Adult Dosage
If the amount of medicine is 2.5, then it can be administered 2 to 3 times a day as per the requirement. A nebulized solution ranging from 1.25 to 5 mg can be administered every 4 to 8 hours, which is efficacious in relieving symptoms. For a more precise and personalized treatment journey, you may consult a doctor, as only he can decide on duration and dosage amount based on the health condition.
- Pediatric dosage
Depending upon the age of the child, dosage amount is determined. The puff amount should not exceed 12 within 24 hours for children aged four and older and ten puffs for children aged two and older. The advised dosage amount for children aged 6 to 12 is 4 mg every 12 hours and should not be more than 24 mg in 24 hours.
Can you give an albuterol nebulizer every 2 hours?
In general, it is not recommended to use an albuterol nebulizer every 2 hours unless and until the doctor instructs to do so. The use of this nebulizer shouldn’t be repeated at least for 4 hours. However, in some severe cases of breathing issues, the doctor may recommend using the nebulizer every 2 hours.
It is imperative to be aware of the repercussions of overuse of albuterol as it can lead to adverse reactions and less efficacy of the medicine. Adherence to the instructions and guidelines provided by the doctor is an essential part of administrating the nebulizer.
Treatment and Prevention
The albuterol nebulizer is a bronchodilator extensively prescribed for the treatment and prevention of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hyperkalemia with renal failure, and other lung diseases. It is also very helpful in dealing with exercise-induced asthma as it works by broadening airway muscles, allowing an adequate amount of air and facilitating breathing.
- Some alternatives
- Methylprednisolone 4 mg – It is an oral medication which is efficacious in treating arthritis, severe allergic reactions, eye conditions, lung diseases, etc.
- Singulair 10mg – This is a prescription medicine used for asthma prevention and various allergies
- OTC Inhaler – In the pharmaceutical market, there’s a wide range of over-the-counter inhalers available for breathing diseases like asthma.
Conclusion
Breathing diseases like asthma and COPD are widespread health conditions. A nebulizer regulates this breathing issue by turning medicine into a mist so that the patient can inhale it conveniently. However, any nebulizer will only function effectively when it is administrated accurately. The patient utilizing a nebulizer in the home space should be aware of all the instructions and guidelines regarding the application method. Along with this, it is imperative to look at dosage frequency and the ideal number of puffs one should take in 24 hours, depending on the severity of the health condition. The accurate knowledge about approved treatments of a particular medicine will help mitigate all the prospects of experiencing adverse effects.