Feline Albuterol Vs. Human Albuterol

Both humans and cats can suffer from asthma. In order to combat an asthma attack, oral, inhaled and intravenous medications are utilized to open airways and reduce mucus production. Albuterol is an asthma medication that is prescribed for both species. Although Albuterol is commonly prescribed by doctors for humans, it is less common for a veterinarian to prescribe Albuterol for felines. Albuterol is not yet approved by the FDA for use in veterinary medicine.

  1. Basics

    • Albuterol is the generic name for this bronchodilator medication. A bronchodilator, also know as a sympathomimetric, works to dilate and open airways. Feline Albuterol is available with a prescription from your veterinarian, as oral tablets, syrups, aerosols and capsules that are inhaled. Albuterol that is prescribed for people comes as a syrup, tablet and extended-release tablet. It is also available as an inhaler, which opens the airway faster than oral drugs. Inhalers are typically a mixture of Albuterol and other medications.

    Uses

    • Although not common, your veterinarian might prescribe Albuterol for feline asthma, brochospasms or coughs. Human Albuterol is used in the treatment of asthma, wheezing, breathing problems and chest tightness caused by various lung diseases. Albuterol opens the airway, offering rapid relief by relaxing the muscles.

    Dosage

    • Dosage for both feline and human Albuterol should be taken under the expressed recommendation of your doctor or veterinarian. Never use human Albuterol for cats and vice versa. Asthmatic cats typically take Albuterol up to four times a day, however, in an emergency situation, feline Albuterol can be used every half hour for two to four hours. Your vet will also let you know the amount of time your cat needs treatment, which will depend on the condition. For humans, Albuterol is taken three to four times a day, excluding the extended-release tablets. Extended-release tablets release a controlled amount of the medication at a time and are taken once every 12 hours.

    Side Effects

    • Your pet may experience side effects when taking Albuterol, which include excitement, tremors, elevated heart rate, nervousness or dizziness. These side effects are typically mild. However, you should contact your vet if your cat's symptoms worsen or if you notice she has dilated pupils or begins to vomit. Humans may experience similar side effects when taking Albuterol, which include dizziness, nervousness and uncontrollable shaking. However, humans may also experience muscle cramps, mood swings, nausea, changes in appetite, sleep problems and pale skin. You should contact your doctor if you experience irregular heartbeat, fever, blisters, itching, rashes or swelling of the face or limbs.