Albuterol is a common rescue medication that people with COPD can use as an inhaler or nebulizer. Side effects are usually mild, but rare and serious cardiac side effects can occur.

Primatene is not meant for long-term use. Albuterol is a rescue inhaler that treats or prevents sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in adults and children 4 and older.

A spacer is a device designed to make an asthma inhaler easier to use.