SALBUTAMOL
Salbutamol is a reliever medicine that opens up the airways quickly during breathing difficulty. It is best known as the blue inhaler and also comes as syrup, tablets and nebuliser solution.
What Salbutamol Is Used For
- Relief of asthma symptoms and attacks
- Breathing difficulty in COPD
- Wheeze and shortness of breath
Common Side Effects
- Shaky hands (tremor)
- Faster heartbeat
- Headache
Precautions
Salbutamol relieves symptoms but does not treat the underlying inflammation, so if you are needing your reliever inhaler often, see your doctor to review your treatment. Learning correct inhaler technique makes a big difference. Keep your reliever with you at all times.
This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.
Salbutamol, also known as albuterol, is a medication used to treat and prevent bronchospasm in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is a type of bronchodilator, which means it works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Salbutamol is available as an inhaler, nebulizer solution, and tablet.
Benefits:
Can quickly relieve symptoms of bronchospasm, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Can be used as a preventative measure before exercise or other triggers that may cause bronchospasm.
Available in multiple forms, making it easy to use for people of all ages.
Side Effects:
Common side effects include shaking, headache, dizziness, and fast or irregular heartbeat.
In rare cases, it can cause allergic reactions such as hives, rash, and difficulty breathing.
Overuse or misuse of the medication can lead to worsening of bronchospasm or decrease in the effectiveness of the medication.
Long-term use of high doses can lead to side effects such as osteoporosis, cataracts, and glaucoma.
