Whether these events occurred after missed or decreased doses is unclear. Although more than four out of five parents of users of all types of bronchodilators discussed medication side effects with their physicians, the study found that less than four percent perceived their physicians as prepared to discuss concerns, possibly because of the lack of alternatives. Parents reported that only 16-24 percent of physicians were willing to change the dose, frequency, or brand of bronchodilator treatment regimens with the goal of minimizing side effects, although there are currently a growing variety of treatment options for asthma. Oftentimes the benefit of the medication outweighs the risk and we have to ask patients to tolerate the side effects. According to Dr. White, patients who are experiencing side effects should always discuss them directly with their doctor before making any changes to their treatment.
Physicians can sometimes relieve side effects with a new medication or a different dosage.
Approaching your doctor with your concerns is a step toward breathing easier, but you can also take some steps on your own. Check your technique-make sure you are inhaling correctly Use a holding chamber For more information about how to gain better control of asthma and treatment side effects, AAN MA offers a customized asthma management plan. Allergy and Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics, Inc., a leading grassroots education and advocacy organization, assists the more than 50 million people who have allergies and asthma, and their families, so they can better manage these diseases in their daily lives.