How is Airsupra (albuterol) taken?

How to Take Airsupra (Albuterol/Budesonide)

Airsupra is taken as 2 inhalations (actuations) as needed for asthma symptoms, with a maximum of 12 inhalations in a 24-hour period. 1

Proper Administration Technique

Initial Setup and Priming

• Before first use: Prime the inhaler by releasing 4 sprays into the air away from your face, shaking well before each spray 1
• Re-prime when:
  • The inhaler hasn't been used for more than 7 days
  • The inhaler has been dropped
  • After cleaning
  • For re-priming, release 2 sprays into the air, shaking well before each spray 1

Correct Inhalation Technique

1. Shake the inhaler well before each use
2. Exhale fully (away from the inhaler)
3. Place the mouthpiece between your lips, creating a good seal
4. While beginning to inhale slowly and deeply, press down on the canister
5. Continue to inhale fully
6. Hold your breath for 10 seconds if possible
7. Wait approximately 1 minute between the two inhalations

Dosing Information

• Standard dose: 2 inhalations (180 mcg albuterol/160 mcg budesonide total) per dose 1
• Maximum usage: No more than 6 doses (12 inhalations) in a 24-hour period 1
• Frequency: Use only as needed for asthma symptoms

Tracking Medication Use

• The inhaler has a dose counter that shows how many inhalations remain 1
• The color behind the number changes to yellow when nearing the end of usable inhalations
• Discard the inhaler when the pointer reaches zero 1

Important Considerations

• Rinse mouth with water after use (without swallowing) to help prevent oral candidiasis (thrush) 2
• If symptoms continue after using Airsupra, this may indicate worsening asthma that requires medical evaluation
• Excessive use may lead to adverse effects including cardiovascular effects, tremors, and hypokalemia 1
• If you experience paradoxical bronchospasm (increased wheezing after use), discontinue immediately and seek medical attention

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not shaking the inhaler before use
• Not priming a new inhaler or one that hasn't been used recently
• Inhaling too quickly (slow, deep inhalation is best)
• Not holding breath after inhalation
• Using the inhaler after the dose counter reaches zero

Airsupra represents a newer approach to asthma management, combining a rescue medication (albuterol) with an anti-inflammatory medication (budesonide) in a single inhaler for as-needed use, which has been shown to reduce the risk of severe asthma exacerbations compared to albuterol alone 3.