About albuterol sulfate
Short-acting beta-2 agonist bronchodilator
Used for
- Relieves wheezing and breathlessness in asthma.
- Treats reversible airway narrowing in other lung diseases.
Usual adult dose
Usually 2–4 mg by mouth three or four times daily; doses vary by condition.
Usual dose in children
Usually 1–2 mg three or four times daily for ages 2–6; 2 mg for ages 6–12.
Common side effects
- Tremor
- Fast heartbeat or palpitations
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
Important warnings
- Tablets act more slowly than inhalers for sudden breathing problems.
- Seek urgent care for severe or worsening breathing difficulty.
- Use caution with heart disease, diabetes, or overactive thyroid.
- High doses may lower blood potassium.
Pregnancy
Use when needed under medical supervision; maintaining asthma control is important.
Breastfeeding
Generally compatible at usual doses; monitor for infant irritability or a fast heartbeat.
Interactions
- Beta-blockers may reduce its effect and trigger bronchospasm.
- Other stimulants or sympathomimetics may increase heart effects.
- Diuretics and corticosteroids may worsen low potassium.
- Some antidepressants and anesthetics may increase abnormal heart rhythm risk.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.