About albuterol sulphate
Short-acting beta-2 agonist bronchodilator
Used for
- Relief of wheezing and breathlessness in asthma
- Prevention of exercise-induced asthma symptoms
- Relief of reversible airway narrowing in chronic lung disease
Usual adult dose
Usually 1–2 inhalations as needed; for exercise prevention, use 2 inhalations 10–15 minutes beforehand.
Usual dose in children
Usually 1 inhalation as needed; a second may be used if required. For exercise prevention, use 1–2 inhalations beforehand.
Common side effects
- Shaking or tremor
- Fast heartbeat or palpitations
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
Important warnings
- Frequent or increasing use may indicate worsening asthma.
- Seek urgent care for severe breathing difficulty or poor response.
- Rarely, inhaled salbutamol can cause paradoxical worsening of wheezing.
- Use caution with heart problems, overactive thyroid, or diabetes.
Pregnancy
Generally used when needed; uncontrolled asthma can harm both parent and baby. Use requires clinical assessment.
Breastfeeding
Generally considered compatible when used at inhaled doses; clinical assessment may be appropriate.
Interactions
- Non-selective beta-blockers, such as propranolol, may reduce its effect or worsen breathing.
- Other stimulants or medicines that increase heart rate may increase palpitations.
- Diuretics and corticosteroids may increase the risk of low blood potassium.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.