• Basic Info
• Top Questions
• Clinical Info
• Interactions

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Symptoms of an metaproterenol overdose include angina or chest pain, irregular heartbeats or a fluttering heart, seizures, tremor, weakness, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

What should I avoid while taking metaproterenol?

Avoid situations that may trigger an asthma attack such as exercising in cold, dry air; smoking; breathing in dust; and exposure to allergens such as pet fur.

What are the possible side effects of metaproterenol?

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or

• chest pains or an irregular heart beat.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take metaproterenol and talk to your doctor if you experience

• headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, or insomnia;

• tremor or nervousness;

• sweating;

• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; or

• dry mouth.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect metaproterenol?

Before taking metaproterenol, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

• a beta-blocker such as atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), propranolol (Inderal), and others;
• a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), doxepin (Sinequan), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), and others;
• a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate);

• another inhaled or oral bronchodilator; or

• caffeine, diet pills, or decongestants.

You may not be able to take metaproterenol, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with metaproterenol or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about metaproterenol written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Metaproterenol is available with a prescription under the brand names Alupent and Metaprel. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.