Albuterol vs. Albuterol Sulfate: Understanding the Differences

Albuterol and albuterol sulfate are prescription medications that are prescribed to control wheezing in patients with asthma and bronchitis. There are some slight differences in the two medications, and both have some side effects associated with their use.

Albuterol

• The generic form of albuterol inhalers contain albuterol. This medication is used to treat bronchospasms from asthma or exercised induced wheezing.

Albuterol Sulfate

• Albuterol sulfate is found in albuterol syrup, tablets, and nebulizer solutions. There is no major difference between the medication albuterol and albuterol sulfate, and they are both used to treat asthma bronchitis patients.

Effects

• The side effects are the same for albuterol and albuterol sulfate. These may include tremors, shakiness, headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, upper respiratory tract infections, nervousness and a fast heart rate.

Drug Interactions

• Albuterol and albuterol sulfate can interact with other medicines, so it is important to tell your doctor about any over-the-counter or prescription medications you are taking. This will help to avoid a dangerous drug interaction.

Warning

• Tell your doctor before taking albuterol or albuterol sulfate, if you have been diagnosed with a fast heart rate, irregular heart beat, high blood pressure, over-active thyroid, diabetes, seizures, heart disease or allergies to foods, dyes or preservatives. This will help to avoid any adverse side effects from these medications.