When taking beta-2 agonists, a person may feel a bit jittery. The individual may have a rapid heart rate , mild shakiness in the hands, and insomnia . This passes when the medicine wears off. Overuse of beta-2 agonists can lead to serious arrhythmias , or irregular heartbeats. If a person experiences these side effects, it is important to let the healthcare provider know.
Corticosteroids have few side effects when given by inhaler.
One common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids is a yeast infection in the mouth called oral thrush . It is important to rinse one's mouth out each time the corticosteroid inhaler is used. This reduces the chances of getting oral thrush . Two recent studies have shown that the benefits of inhaled steroids in children significantly outweigh the risks. Children who were on inhaled steroids were much less likely to be taken to the emergency department or to need treatment with more powerful medicines.