Metaproterenol (By Mouth)

Metaproterenol (met-a-proe-TER-e-nol)

Treats asthma, bronchitis, and other lung disorders. Belongs to a class of drugs called bronchodilators.

Brand Name(s):

Alupent
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to metaproterenol or any other drug like metaproterenol (such as Proventil®, Ventolin®, or epinephrine).

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often.
• May be taken with or without food.
• Measure the oral liquid using a marked measuring spoon.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• Take the rest of the doses for the day at regularly spaced time intervals.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, direct light, and moisture. Do not freeze the oral liquid.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you are taking heart or blood pressure medicine, or medicine for depression.
• You should not use cocaine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor before taking metaproterenol if you have high blood pressure or heart disease, a thyroid disorder, or diabetes.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• If metaproterenol does not help your breathing or if your condition worsens while you are using it, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Chest pain
• Fast pounding heartbeat
• Severe headache or tremors
• Your skin starts to look pale or blue
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Seizures

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Restlessness, nervousness, or shakiness
• Headache, nausea or vomiting
• Mild dizziness or drowsiness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of appetite or change in taste
• Pain or difficulty going to the bathroom (urinating)
• Muscle cramps

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.