An Introduction to Side Effects of Pirbuterol
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with
pirbuterol acetate (
Maxair®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate pirbuterol well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with pirbuterol. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of pirbuterol side effects with you.)
Pirbuterol inhalers will not be made, dispensed, or sold in the United States in their current form after December 31, 2013. Pirbuterol inhalers contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), chemicals that deplete the ozone layer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set this final date for the medication in order to comply with the Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer. The manufacturer of pirbuterol is working on a reformulated, CFC-free version, although it is not yet clear when that product will be available to consumers.