Drug interactions
Albuterol + Lithium
Severity: Minor
Albuterol and Lithium: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Both drugs have been associated with QTc prolongation or cardiac effects, particularly with high-dose or nebulized albuterol and hypokalemia. Clinically significant effects are uncommon at usual doses.
What this interaction means in plain words
Albuterol and Lithium have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Possible additive QTc effects, with beta-agonist induced hypokalemia contributing.
What to do
No routine change is needed at usual doses. Check potassium and ECG if high-dose albuterol is used or the patient has other QT risk factors.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Lithium
- Lithium + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Lithium + Vandetanib Contraindicated
- Aceclofenac + Lithium Major
- Acemetacin + Lithium Major
- Amisulpride + Lithium Major
- Amlodipine-benazepril + Lithium Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Albuterol with Lithium?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Albuterol and Lithium have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Both drugs have been associated with QTc prolongation or cardiac effects, particularly with high-dose or nebulized albuterol and hypokalemia. Clinically significant effects are uncommon at usual doses.
How serious is the interaction between Albuterol and Lithium?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No routine change is needed at usual doses. Check potassium and ECG if high-dose albuterol is used or the patient has other QT risk factors.
What other medicines interact with Lithium?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Lithium with, for example, Thioridazine, Vandetanib, Aceclofenac. The full list is on the Lithium page.
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