How does it work?

Reproterol hydrochloride stimulates receptors in the lungs,called beta2-receptors. These receptors then cause the muscle lining the windpipe and airways of the lungs to relax. In conditions where the airways tighten, such as asthma, it is difficult for air to get in and out of the lungs. By opening the airways, reproterol reverses the effects of asthma and helps the patient to breathe. Reproterol is given by an inhaler. This allows the medicine to act directly in the region where it is needed. This also reduces the side effects of the medicine on other parts of the body, by reducing the amount absorbed into the body.

What is it used for?

Chronic bronchitis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Warning!

If this medicine fails to provide up to 3 hours relief from shortness of breath, seek medical advice.

Use with caution in

Diabetes

Heart disease

High blood pressure

Hyperthyroidism

Irregular heart beats (arrhythmias)

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Faster than normal heart beat (tachycardia)

Unexpected narrowing of the airways (paradoxical bronchospasm)

Shaking, usually of the hands (tremor)

Anxiety and restlessness

Headache

Awareness of your heart beat (heart palpitations)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?

When reproterol is given with: diuretics such as bendrofluazide acetazolamide (Diamox) theophylline high doses of corticosteroids there may be a decrease in blood potassium levels. Certain medicines that are used to lower high blood pressure (beta-blockers such as metoprolol,atenolol and propanolol) may decrease the effectiveness of reproterol in opening the airways.

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