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Compare Primatene Mist vs. Albuterol

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Primatene Mist (epinephrine) and albuterol (Ventolin, ProAir) are both used to treat asthma symptoms by helping you breathe easier. They are both bronchodilators, but they belong to different medication classes. Primatene Mist (epinephrine) is an alpha and beta adrenergic agonist available over-the-counter, while albuterol is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) that requires a prescription. Primatene Mist is approved for short-term relief of mild asthma symptoms in people aged 12 and older, whereas albuterol is approved for treating or preventing wheezing and shortness of breath and preventing exercise-induced asthma in people aged 4 and older. Primatene Mist is typically used as 1 to 2 sprays every 4 hours, while albuterol is used as 1 to 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Both medications can affect heart rate and blood pressure, but Primatene Mist has a higher risk of heart-related side effects and is not a preferred medications for asthma.

  • Primatene mist (epinephrine)
    Albuterol
  • Primatene mist (epinephrine)
    Albuterol

  • Summary of Primatene Mist vs. Albuterol

    Summary for Alpha and beta adrenergic agonist

    Primatene Mist (epinephrine) is an over-the-counter (OTC) bronchodilator spray used for short-term relief of mild asthma symptoms, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest. It's available as an aerosolized (mist) inhaler with epinephrine as the active ingredient. Side effects include raised blood pressure or heart rate and nervousness.

    Summary for SABA
    Prescription only

    Albuterol sulfate is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA). It's a rescue inhaler that treats or prevents sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in adults and children at least 4 years old with certain breathing problems, such as asthma. Albuterol is inhaled through the mouth using either an HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) or a dry powder inhaler. The typical dose is 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours as needed when you suddenly have trouble breathing. Albuterol side effects generally include sore throat, throat irritation, and infections.

  • Indications of Primatene Mist vs. Albuterol

    Indications for
    •Asthma, short-term relief of mild symptoms in adults and children ages 12 and older
    Indications for
    •Treatment or prevention of wheezing or tightening of airways in people ages 4 years and older with certain types of lung problems (e.g., asthma)
    •Prevention of exercise-induced asthma in people ages 4 years and older

  • Pros and Cons of Primatene Mist vs. Albuterol

    Pros and Const for Alpha and beta adrenergic agonist
    Pros
    •Provides short-term relief of shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness
    •One of few inhaler options available over the counter
    •Can be used in people ages 12 years and older
    Cons
    •Can raise blood pressure and speed up your heart rate
    •Not meant for long-term use
    •Not a preferred medication for asthma because of the potential risk of heart-related side effects
    Pros and Const for SABA
    Pros
    •Works within minutes to help you breathe easier when you have an asthma attack or trouble breathing
    •Only used as needed when you're short of breath or when you're about to exercise
    •Can be used by children as young as 4 years old
    •Available as two types of inhalers: HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) and dry powder inhaler
    Cons
    •Might have to use the inhaler multiple times per day since it's a short-acting medication
    •Might be difficult for some people to use the inhaler properly
    •Should carry with you at all times so you can use it when you need to

  • Common Side Effects of Primatene Mist vs. Albuterol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Fast heartbeat
    •Tremors
    •Nervousness
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sore throat
    •Throat irritation
    •Runny nose
    •Upper respiratory infection

    Note: Side effects you might have can depend on your age, dose, the type of albuterol inhaler you're using, and how often you're using the inhaler.

  • Warnings of Primatene Mist vs. Albuterol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening asthma symptoms
    •Heart problems
    •Worsening of medical conditions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Breathing problems
    •Heart problems
    •Low potassium in the blood
    •Allergic reactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Primatene Mist vs. Albuterol

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