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Racepinephrine Nebulizer Solution

What is this medication?

RACEPINEPHRINE (RACE ep i NEF rin) treats lung diseases, such as asthma, where the airways in the lungs narrow, causing breathing problems or wheezing (bronchospasm). It works by opening the airways of the lungs, making it easier to breathe. It is often called a rescue or quick-relief medication.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Asthmanefrin, S-2

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Have a previous hospitalization for asthma
  • Diabetes
  • Glaucoma
  • Heart disease or irregular heartbeat
  • High blood pressure
  • Pheochromocytoma
  • Prostate trouble
  • Seizures
  • Stroke
  • Taken an MAOI like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate in last 14 days
  • Thyroid disease
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to racepinephrine, epinephrine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for inhalation using a nebulizer. Nebulizers make a liquid into an aerosol that you breathe in through your mouth or your mouth and nose and into your lungs. Take it as directed on the prescription label. Do not use it more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 4 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

This medication may also interact with the following:

  • Aminophylline
  • Atomoxetine
  • Caffeine
  • Entacapone
  • Epinephrine
  • Medications for high blood pressure or heart disease
  • Medications for colds or congestion, like phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine
  • Medications for depression, anxiety, or mental health conditions
  • Medications for weight loss including some herbal products
  • Other inhaled medications for asthma, like albuterol or levalbuterol
  • Stimulant medications for attention disorders, weight loss, or to stay awake
  • Theophylline
  • Tolcapone
  • Thyroid hormones

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Asthma can be a life-threatening condition. Get medical help right away if asthma does not improve in 20 minutes, if the symptoms get worse, if you need more than 12 racepinephrine inhalations in 24 hours, if you use more than 9 inhalations in 24 hours for more than 3 days a week, or if you have more than two asthma attacks per week.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing
  • Increase in blood pressure
  • Wheezing or trouble breathing that is worse after use

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Tremors or shaking
  • Trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store between 2 and 25 degrees C (36 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep unopened vials in the foil pouch. Get rid of any unused drug after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of use.

Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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