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Salbutamol (albuterol)

Definition, side effects & dosage

What is Salbutamol?

Also known as (Brand Names): Ventolin

Salbutamol (also called albuterol) is an adrenergic bronchodilator that is used to treat bronchospasms stemming from asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, COPD, or other breathing disorders. It is most commonly used in the form of an inhaler in which the medicine is inhaled through the mouth to open air passages and relieve coughing, wheezing, and breathing difficulties.

It works by activating beta2 receptors that relax the bronchi and stimulating production of cyclic AMP, which inhibits the release of histamine into the airways.

Salbutamol Side Effects & Risks

As with most medications, there are side effects and risks associated with taking Salbutamol. This is not a complete list. If you experience any other symptoms, contact your doctor.

Common side effects

Common side effects of salbutamol include increased heart rate.

Uncommon side effects

Uncommon side effects of salbutamol include irregular heartbeat.

Rare side effects

The following side effects are rarely experienced by patients taking salbutamol.

  • Low blood potassium characterized by muscle weakness and spasms.
  • Hallucinations in children characterized by seeing or hearing things that are not there.

Very rare side effects

In very rare cases, people taking salbutamol can experience the following side effects.

  • Bronchospasm characterized by sudden worsening of shortness of breath and wheezing after taking the medication.
  • Allergic reactions characterized by sudden wheezing, chest pain or tightness, and swelling of the eyelids, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, or extrasystoles characterized by irregular heartbeat.

Other side effects

It is unknown how commonly the following side effects occur for patients taking salbutamol.

Salbutamol Dosage & Available Forms

Salbutamol is available as an inhaler, nebulizing solution, oral solution, or tablet. Symptom relief typically lasts between four and eight hours.

The typical dosage varies widely depending on the age of the patient, the form of the drug, and the severity of the disease. The usual recommended dosage in inhaler form for adults and children over 12 is 1-2 puffs every 4 to 6 hours to prevent or relieve bronchospasm. Children between the ages of 4 and 11 should usually take 1 puff every 4 to 6 hours. The maximum dose is 8 puffs daily for adults and 4 puffs daily for children.

Salbutamol overdose can be fatal. If you take more than your prescribed dosage, seek medical attention immediately.

Do Not Take

Patients should avoid taking salbutamol if any of the following statements are true.

Allergic reactions

Do not take salbutamol if you are allergic to salbutamol or any ingredient in the formulation or packaging.

Interactions and contraindications

There are more than 400 medications that may interact with salbutamol including, but not limited to, polyethylene glycol 3350 (MiraLAX), furosemide (Lasix), fluticasone/salmeterol (Advair Diskus), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort).

Pregnancy and lactation

There are currently no clinical studies that show adverse affects of salbutamol use in pregnant mothers or babies. Asthma, however, when uncontrolled, can cause an increased risk of preeclampsia or premature birth, so pregnant women with asthma should be closely monitored.

Medical history

Make sure your doctor is aware if you have a history of cardiovascular disease, seizures, renal dysfunction, diabetes, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, or hypokalemia.

Alcohol consumption

Because salbutamol can make you dizzy, limited alcohol use is recommended while taking this medication.