Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. This is an albuterol HFA inhaler. It helps to treat sudden shortness of breath in people who have asthma and other lung conditions. It is sometimes called a 'rescue inhaler' because it works quickly. It may have other uses, too. Albuterol HFA is often taken as needed. You should use your inhaler exactly as your doctor tells you to. You should ask your pharmacist to watch your inhaler technique, to make sure it is correct.

Most people tolerate this medicine well. Common side effects include a rapid heart rate, nervousness, dizziness, and tremors. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. If you ever feel your breathing is worse, or that you need it more often than usual, you should call your doctor right away.

The first time you use a new inhaler, it is important to prepare it by shaking and spraying it three times, away from your face. Also, you should clean it once a week--just remove the canister, clean the mouthpiece with warm water, and let it air dry.

Albuterol HFA can interact with other medicines. You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines. 

Women should check with their doctors before becoming pregnant and before breastfeeding. For best results, take albuterol HFA only as prescribed, and follow your doctor's advice about lifestyle changes that may help you breathe better.