jacksonville, florida – The United States has been dealing with a nationwide albuterol shortage since October 2022 that could get worse before it gets better, doctors say.
Albuterol is used to treat symptoms of asthma. This can potentially increase with more pollen in the air causing allergies.
Dr. Jacqueline Squire, an allergist and immunologist at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, revealed that albuterol deficiencies are currently only affecting the solutions found in nebulizer machines, not inhalers.
“Switching to an inhaler is so easy for most patients that it is just as effective as nebulized solutions, so you can talk to your doctor about switching to an inhaler,” Squire said. .
Nebulizer machines are often used with small children as they may be an easier option. said that children can adapt to inhalers if combined with
Squire also recommended other Albuterol alternatives.
“These include other nebulized options, another inhaler option, and also some combination medications that can be used as daily maintenance therapy for asthma,” Squire said.
She also emphasized that whether someone uses a nebulizer or an inhaler, they are supposed to be used only when necessary.
“Ideally, less than twice a week. So if you need albuterol more than twice a week, you should talk to us or your doctor to discuss other treatment options that give you better control.” You can reduce that need because you have an albuterol inhaler,” Squire said.
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