Clenbuterol (clenbuterol) is a powerful stimulant with effects similar to epinephrine. It is most often prescribed as a decongestant and bronchodilator in patients with asthma, COPD, or other breathing disorders. It is frequently used in veterinary medicine as well. 

In addition to acting as a bronchodilator, clenbuterol produces a number of other effects: 

• Promotes elimination of adipose (fat) tissue 
  
• Prevents new adipose tissue from forming 
  
• Increases metabolism 
  
• Promotes muscle growth 
  

In short, along with increasing airflow to the lungs, clenbuterol helps build muscle while decreasing fat. Because of these appealing properties the drug sees widespread abuse as a weight-loss aid and performance enhancer; factors which eventually led to it being highly restricted in many parts of the world. 

Abuse even extends to animals, particularly livestock, as the added weight from muscle growth converts to greater profits. Consumers may experience side effects from the drug after eating meat from dosed animals. Administering clenbuterol to any animal destined to be food is strictly prohibited in most countries. 

Safe Use of Clenbuterol 

With such varied uses it is difficult to summarize dosage and administration of this medication. For treatment of breathing disorders it is generally taken irregularly, on an as-needed basis. For most patients 20 to 40 mcg suffice. 

Tolerance to clenbuterol may build quickly if taken regularly, rendering it significantly less effective over time. Most patients find it beneficial to take periodic breaks for a few days or weeks, during which time tolerance will diminish, then resuming treatment as normal. 

For off-label uses such as weight loss or muscle building dosage may vary between 10 to 120 mcg a day. Taking more than 120 mcg may produce severe side effects even in healthy adults. Patients with preexisting conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure may experience dangerous side effects at much lower doses. 

Regardless of the purpose for which the medication is being taken, it is highly advisable to start at very low doses, increasing dosage only if side effects are absent or very mild. 

Tablets may be taken with or without food; taking with food may ease nausea. Plenty of fluids should be consumed over the course of treatment to prevent dehydration, which may worsen some side effects. Regularly eating bananas may ease muscle cramps, if experienced. 

Small doses may taken once a day; larger doses should split into two or more doses. Avoid use near bedtime as it may produce insomnia. 

Adverse Reactions 

Individuals with any major medical conditions, particularly heart issues, high or low blood pressure, chronic malnutrition or dehydration, and liver problems should use clenbuterol only with explicit doctor approval. 

Mild side effects from this medication are relatively common, including:

• Rapid heart beat 
  
• Increased blood pressure 
  
• Decreased blood pressure 
  
• Excessive sweating 
  
• Dry mouth 
  
• Tremors 
  
• Nausea & vomiting 
  
• Muscle cramps 
  
• Insomnia 
  
• Loss of appetite 
  
• Headaches & dizziness 
  

Most of the above side effects are shared by other stimulants, including caffeine, and generally aren't a problem unless severe. Many patients adjust after a few days and either no longer experience or no longer notice side effects. If side effects do become severe, seek medical attention immediately. 

Problems are very likely to arise when clenbuterol use becomes abuse. Taking too much of medication can turn mild side effects into life-threatening medical emergencies, and may also lead to permanent heart damage. 

Clenbuterol may interfere with a wide range of other medications; check with a doctor before mixing medications. Effects of the drug, including adverse reactions, may be significantly enhanced if mixing with other stimulants. 

This medication should not be used by pregnant or nursing women.