Some inhalers have a counter to help you keep track of doses, but others don’t.
This can be particularly challenging for as-needed rescue inhalers, such as albuterol inhalers.
There are several different types of inhalers.
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For example, a preloaded inhaler makes it easier toknow when the inhaler’s empty.
These inhalers typically contain 50 to 200 doses of medication.
How you store your inhaler also affects how well it works, regardless of the expiration date.
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Types of Inhalers
There are several different types of inhalers.
They generally fall into the category of controller or rescue inhalers.
Controller inhalers contain corticosteroids, either alone or incombination with bronchodilators.
Corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation over time, and bronchodilators help launch the airway.
Albuterol is ashort-acting bronchodilatorand the most common rescue inhaler.
Then, you’re free to use a calendar to determine when your medication will run out.
If you’re unsure when your medication will run out, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for help.
Rescue Inhalers
Albuterol is a common rescue inhaler; most albuterol inhalers have counters.
It is unrealistic to expect yourself to remember how many you have used.
When Do You Need an Albuterol Inhaler?
Albuterol inhalers are used as rescue inhalersduring an acute asthma attack.
Generally, individuals can take two puffs to help relieve symptoms.
However, your healthcare provider may recommend taking up to four puffs.
If symptoms are not relieved after 20 minutes, the dose can usually be repeated.
Albuterol works when the medication is inhaled to relieve asthma symptoms quickly.
Someside effectsare associated with albuterol, such as nervousness or excitability.
Side effects of albuterol may last for two to six hours.
How long the side effects last depends on how many puffs of the medication you took.
The action plan typically explains what doses of medicines to take and when to seek emergency medical help.
How Long Does Albuterol Last in Your System?
Albuterol side effects generally last two to three hours.
Within 24 hours of the last dose, the majority of the albuterol will have left the body.
How Long Does an Albuterol Inhaler Last?
Knowing when a medication expires is essential for any medication.
However, tracking expiration dates with medications such as rescue inhalers is crucial since their use is often sporadic.
If you use albuterol or other rescue inhaler, plan when you will get a refill.
You don’t want to be caught without a safe and effective rescue inhaler when you suddenly need one.
The majority of albuterol inhalers come with a counter.
Typically, the number on the inhaler reads 203.
The extra doses are because the inhaler must be primed before use.
The general guidance is to watch the dose counter.
When it reaches 20, you should contact your pharmacy for a refill.
Many albuterol inhalers also have a red flag that will appear as you get closer to zero doses.
It is a visual aid to help you remember to refill the inhaler.
you’re free to also keep a note on your phone or other electronic unit.
Remember also to count the puffs of your inhaler used when priming it.
An expired albuterol inhaler won’t hurt you.
Keep in mind that expiration dates are only valid for inhalers stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If medications are not stored properly, they can become unstable and, therefore, ineffective or unsafe.
How Long Do Other Inhalers Last?
You may use a daily inhaled steroid to help control your asthma.
Daily-use controller inhalerscontain various steroidsand medication combinations.
Inhalers vary in how long they last.
Here are a few examples of other commonly used inhalers and how long they last.
Storage and Disposal
Most medications, including inhalers, need to be kept at optimal temperatures.
Humidity can also make your equipment slightly wet, interfering with the dose that is delivered with each inhalation.
Medication and propellants could also leak out into the environment.
Instead, ask your pharmacist if they can dispose of your inhaler.
Some pharmacies have drop-off boxes for drug disposal; others may hold special take-back days or events.
Your local health department or police/fire station may do the same occasionally.
However, it might be less effective if it’s beyond the expiration date.
Most inhalers, including albuterol inhalers, have counters.
Several different inhalers are on the market, including rescue and controller inhalers.
Doing so ensures you will have your medication available when you need it.
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