Chemical Name: METAPROTERENOL (met-a-proe-TER-e-nole)
Common uses
Alupent is a bronchodilator used to treat or prevent the symptoms of asthma, emphysema, and other breathing conditions. Alupent is also used to prevent the symptoms of exercise-induced asthma. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your physician.
Prior to Use
Let your physician or pharmacist know about any other medications -- prescription or over-the-counter -- that you are using. Inform your physician of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Instructions for Use
Follow your physician's instructions for taking Alupent. It is best to keep Alupent away from heat and light, at room temperature. If you miss a dose of Alupent and you are using it regularly, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, omit the skipped dose and continue to follow your original dosing schedule.
Warnings
Do not increase your dose without checking with your physician. If your symptoms do not improve and consult your physician if they worsen. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, consult your pharmacist or physician . Alupent may cause dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Rinsing your mouth with water after each dose may help relieve these effects. Women, if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your physician the benefits and risks of using Alupent during pregnancy. The effects of Alupent on breast milk is not known. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Alupent, consult your pharmacist or physician to discuss the risks to your baby.
Potential Side Effects
Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include fast heartbeat, nervousness, tremors, headache, difficulty sleeping, or nausea. Consult your physician if they do not go away or if they bring you difficulties. Consult your physician immediately if you experience rash, hives, itching, wheezing, or increased difficulty breathing. Let your physician, pharmacist, or nurse know if you experience any side-effects not listed here.
Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.
In Case of Overdose
Contact a poison control center or visit an emergency room immediately, if you think you have overdosed. Indications of an overdose are chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, tremors, seizures, nervousness, sleeplessness, weakness, and dizziness.
Additional information
If your symptoms do not improve and consult your physician if they worsen. Carry an identification card at all times that states you are taking Alupent. Do not let anyone else use Alupent. Do not take Alupent to treat health conditions other than what it was prescribed for. Store this and all medication away from the reach of children. If using Alupent for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
