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Asthma Rescue Medicine HF#6660

Respiratory



 



The name of your rescue medicine is _____________________________.

 

What do rescue medicines do?

 

They open and relax the airways, making it easier for you to breath.  They also decrease coughing and wheezing.  They work very quickly, within minutes.

 

How do I know if I need a rescue medicine?

 

You may need to use your rescue medicine if you have

  • Wheezing.
  • Coughing.
  • Chest tightness.

You may also need to use it if you can’t catch your breath.

 

What are some rescue medicines?

  • Short acting beta-agonists:
    • Albuterol (Proventil®, Ventolin®, ProAir®, Accuneb®)
    • Pirbuterol (Maxair®)
    • Levalbuterol (Xopenex®)
  • Anticholinergics:
    • Ipratropium (Atrovent®)
  • Albuterol can also be combined with ipratropium:
    • Combivent® inhaler
    • DuoNeb® by nebulizer

What side effects can they cause?

  • Fast heartbeat
  • Feeling shaky

Important things to remember about your inhaler:

  • Rescue medicines are used every 4-6 hours as needed for quick-relief of asthma symptoms.
  • You should always carry it with you.
  • It may be used 10 minutes before exercise if it triggers asthma symptoms.
  • The mouthpiece, only, should be run under warm water weekly and air-dried.
  • Shake for 5 seconds before each use.


Please check with your pharmacist or health care provider about priming the inhaler when first opening or if you have not used the inhaler in one week.
 

If it seems like you need to use your rescue medicine often, more than 2 times a week other than for exercise, you should call your asthma doctor or nurse.  This may be a sign your asthma is not under good control.

 

The Spanish version of this Health Facts for You is #6732.

 



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 08/21/2012

Copyright © 04/12/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6660

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