Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Maxair, Maxair Autohaler

Generic Name: pirbuterol inhaler (Pronunciation: peer BYOO ter ole)

• What is pirbuterol inhalation (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?
• What are the possible side effects of pirbuterol inhalation (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?
• What is the most important information I should know about pirbuterol inhalation (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?
• Who should not use pirbuterol inhalation (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?
• How should I use pirbuterol inhalation (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?
• What happens if I overdose (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?
• What should I avoid while using pirbuterol inhalation (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?
• What other drugs will affect pirbuterol (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is pirbuterol inhalation (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?

Pirbuterol is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve breathing.

Pirbuterol inhalation is used to treat conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

Pirbuterol inhalation may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of pirbuterol inhalation (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?

Stop using pirbuterol and seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following serious side effects:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
• chest pain or irregular heartbeats.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use pirbuterol inhalation and talk to your doctor if you experience

• headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, or insomnia;
• tremor or nervousness;
• sweating;
• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; or
• dry mouth.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about pirbuterol inhalation (Maxair, Maxair Autohaler)?

It is very important that you use your pirbuterol inhaler properly, so that the medicine gets into your lungs. Your doctor may want you to use a spacer with your inhaler. Talk to your doctor about proper inhaler use.

Seek medical attention if you notice that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.

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