Fenoterol is a medication used to treat asthma and other conditions that restrict air passages. The medicine is formally classified as a bronchodilator. A breathing apparatus is used to administer the doses. Some recipents of fenoterol have reported side effects, but these are generally mild in nature and subside over time. Certain pre-existing conditions may be incongruent with this treatment and should be divulged to a doctor so that he or she may factor these ailments into the consideration of whether or not fenoterol is right for that particular patient.
Ailments like asthma and chronic bronchitis cause air passageways to narrow. This inhibits breathing. Fenoterol treats these conditions by dilating air passageways, with helps improve breathing.
Bronchodilators like fenoterol and terbutaline work by relaxing the smooth muscles that control airways in the lungs. When such muscles are relaxed, their corresponding airways expand and more air passes through. These medications are typically inhaled via inhalers or a mist-producing machine known as a nebulizer. Access to medicine of this sort is available via prescription only. The doses prescribed by a doctor vary based on the height and weight of the particular patient as well as the extent of his or her respiratory condition.
Fenoterol has not been approved for any uses outside of the mitigation of respiratory blockages. Typically, patients are advised to use bronchodilators only when needed; there is no schedule of when the medication should be taken. Overuse may exacerbate the underlying condition. Exceeding the recommended dose of bronchodilators can result in death.
There are several possible side effects associated with this drug. Initially, patients may experience headaches, lightheadedness, or dizziness. Such effects typically taper off with persistent use as directed. More serious side effects include chest pains and an increased or slowed heart rate. If any of these side effects last, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Patients with high blood pressure or heart disease should consult with their doctors before taking fenoterol. There are also other prescription drugs on the market that fenoterol can interact with, so it is important that the recipient of such treatments divulge to his or her doctor any prescription drugs they are taking. Women who are pregnant or nursing can take fenoterol, however, there is a possibility that traces of the medication can be transferred to breast milk. Drinking alcohol while consuming this medication may also magnify the possible side effects associated with this drug.
