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AccuNeb (albuterol sulfate) is an inhalation solution that helps make breathing easier for people with asthma and other lung conditions. It works as a bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles around the airways to open them and allow air to flow more freely. AccuNeb is given using a nebulizer, a machine that turns the liquid medicine into a gentle mist that is breathed in through a mask or mouthpiece. It’s particularly useful for young children and others who have difficulty using standard inhalers.
Directions
AccuNeb is given as an inhalation with a jet nebulizer connected to an air compressor. The medication comes in single-use vials that should be used immediately after opening.
For children 2 to 12 years old weighing less than 15 kg (around 33 lbs), the usual starting dosage is 0.63 mg three or four times daily, with doses spaced 4 to 6 hours apart. For children in the same age range weighing 15 kg or more, or for those 6 to 12 years old regardless of weight, the usual starting dosage may be 1.25 mg given three or four times daily.
Each treatment typically takes 5 to 15 minutes to finish. Avoid mixing AccuNeb with other medications in the nebulizer unless directed by a healthcare provider.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in AccuNeb is albuterol sulfate.
Cautions
Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications currently being taken
Do not use this drug more than prescribed. Using AccuNeb too often or at higher doses may cause serious side effects, including dangerous heart problems.
Worsening symptoms need medical attention. If you need it more frequently or it stops working as well, your asthma may be getting worse and should be re-evaluated.
Rarely, breathing can worsen suddenly. AccuNeb may cause paradoxical bronchospasm, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.
Heart-related side effects are possible. It can raise heart rate and blood pressure and may cause chest pain, palpitations, tremors, or nervousness.
It does not treat inflammation. Many people with asthma also need an anti-inflammatory medication, such as an inhaled corticosteroid.
Low potassium and blood sugar changes may occur. Use caution if you have diabetes or are at risk for electrolyte imbalances.
Allergic reactions can happen. Seek emergency care for rash, swelling, or trouble breathing.
Drug interactions are possible. Certain antidepressants, beta-blockers, diuretics, digoxin, or other inhalers may interact with AccuNeb.
Use caution during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Talk with your healthcare provider about risks and benefits.
Check the solution before use. Do not use it if it looks cloudy or discolored, and do not mix with other drugs unless directed.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using this medication if you have a known hypersensitivity to albuterol sulfate or any other ingredients in the medication.
Side Effects
Common side effects of AccuNeb include:
- Asthma flare-ups
- Cold or flu-like symptoms
- Ear infections (otitis media)
- Nausea
- Migraine or headache
- Chest pain
- Bronchitis
- Allergic skin reactions such as hives
These side effects were reported in clinical trials and were generally mild to moderate. Respiratory infections and asthma exacerbations were among the more commonly reported events. Some people may also experience mild nausea or headache during treatment.
More serious side effects are uncommon but can include chest pain related to heart rhythm changes, severe allergic reactions, or metabolic acidosis.
Although rare, heart-related changes such as ST segment depression have been observed. Contact a healthcare provider if you develop severe chest pain, worsening breathing problems, signs of an allergic reaction, or unusual fatigue or confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions about AccuNeb (albuterol nebules)
What is AccuNeb (albuterol nebules)?
AccuNeb is a nebulized form of albuterol sulfate, a short-acting beta2-agonist bronchodilator. It is used for quick relief of bronchospasm by relaxing airway muscles and opening the air passages to make breathing easier. It is for oral inhalation through a nebulizer and is not for injection.
What is AccuNeb used to treat?
AccuNeb is used to relieve bronchospasm in people age 2 years and older with reversible obstructive airway disease, including acute attacks of bronchospasm. Albuterol inhalation solution is commonly used for asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, and albuterol products more broadly are also used in COPD.
How is AccuNeb taken?
AccuNeb comes as a ready-to-use unit-dose vial for nebulization. The contents are squeezed into the nebulizer reservoir, connected to a mouthpiece or face mask, and inhaled while sitting upright until the mist stops, which usually takes about 5 to 15 minutes. The 0.083% solution does not require dilution.
What is the usual dosing schedule?
The usual dose for adults and children weighing at least 15 kg is 2.5 mg by nebulization three to four times daily. More frequent use or higher doses are not recommended unless specifically directed by a clinician. The nebulizer solution is generally used on a regular schedule depending on the treatment plan.
How quickly does it work, and how long does it last?
AccuNeb is considered a quick-relief medicine rather than a long-term controller. Patient information for AccuNeb states it can help relax airway muscles for up to about 6 hours, which fits its role as a rescue bronchodilator for symptom relief.
What are the most common side effects?
Common side effects of nebulized albuterol include tremor, nervousness, headache, cough, throat irritation, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes trouble sleeping or palpitations. These effects are usually related to the medicine’s stimulant-like bronchodilator activity and may be more noticeable if doses are taken too often.
What serious side effects should people know about?
Serious reactions can include paradoxical bronchospasm, meaning breathing or wheezing suddenly gets worse after a treatment, as well as fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, allergic reactions, and swelling of the face or throat. The label also notes that excessive use of inhaled sympathomimetic drugs has been associated with severe harm, so worsening asthma despite treatment needs prompt medical evaluation.
Who should use AccuNeb cautiously?
AccuNeb should be used carefully in people with heart rhythm problems, hypertension, coronary disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, seizure disorders, or unusual sensitivity to sympathomimetic drugs. Albuterol can also lower potassium in some patients and may have clinically significant cardiovascular effects.
Are there important drug interactions?
Yes. Albuterol can interact with other sympathomimetic bronchodilators or epinephrine, and it should be used with particular caution alongside MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants. Beta-blockers may blunt albuterol’s effect and albuterol may oppose the action of beta-blockers; MedlinePlus also lists interactions to watch for with digoxin, diuretics, and some cold medicines.
How should AccuNeb be stored, and what if it seems to stop working?
Unit-dose vials should be kept in their foil pouch until use and protected from light; the label says to store them between 2° and 25°C (36° and 77°F). If a dose that usually works no longer gives the usual relief, that can be a sign of worsening asthma and should be evaluated promptly rather than treated by simply increasing the frequency on your own.
