Generic
Salbutamol
147 brands available in the market
At a glance
Salbutamol is a fast-acting bronchodilator used to relieve symptoms of asthma and COPD such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. It relaxes airway muscles, making breathing easier.
Description
Salbutamol is a synthetic sympathomimetic agent with predominant β2-adrenergic activity. It stimulates β2-adrenergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscles, causing bronchodilatation and improving airflow.
Indications
- Asthma
- Chronic bronchitis
- Emphysema
- Other conditions associated with airway obstruction
Therapeutic class
Short-acting β2-Agonist
Pharmacological class
Bronchodilator
Pharmacology
Salbutamol stimulates β2-adrenergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscles, causing relaxation and bronchodilatation, which improves airflow. It may cause muscle tremor, palpitations, and muscle cramps as side effects.
Mechanism of action
Relaxes airway muscles by stimulating β2-adrenergic receptors.
Dosage
Adult Dose:
- Oral: 2-4 mg 3-4 times daily (max 8 mg 3-4 times)
- Inhalation (MDI): Acute bronchospasm – 1-2 inhalations as needed; Maintenance – 2 inhalations 3-4 times daily; max 800 mcg/day
- Nebulizer: 2.5-5 mg up to 4 times daily
- Parenteral (IM/SC): 500 mcg (repeat every 4 hours)
- IV: 250 mcg slowly (repeat if needed); infusion 3-20 mcg/min
Pediatric Dose:
- Oral (2-6 years): 1-2 mg; (6-12 years): 2 mg; (>12 years): 2-4 mg 3-4 times daily
- Inhalation (4-12 years): 1 inhalation (up to 2 if needed); max 400 mcg/day
- Nebulizer (>4 years): 2.5-5 mg up to 4 times daily
Administration
- Inhaler: Breathe in through the mouth while pressing the inhaler; hold breath for 10 seconds; rinse mouth after use
- Oral: Take on an empty stomach
- Nebulizer: Use as directed
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Muscle tremor (especially hands)
- Muscle cramps
- Palpitations
- Tachycardia
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, aneurysms
- High doses may cause hypokalemia (digitalis toxicity risk)
- Caution in diabetes mellitus
- Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component
- Threatened abortion in first or second trimester
Drug interactions
- Diuretics, corticosteroids, xanthines: May augment hypokalemia
- MAOIs, TCAs, sympathomimetics: Potentiate cardiovascular effects
- Atomoxetine: May increase heart rate and BP
- Digoxin: May decrease serum digoxin levels
Food interactions
It is not known whether alcohol is safe with Salbutamol; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe; animal studies show harmful effects; use only if clearly needed; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Safe during breastfeeding; human studies show insignificant passage into breastmilk; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Indicated for children 4 years and older
Geriatric use
Elderly: Caution required (start with 2 mg 3-4 times daily)
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution required in kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution required in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause angina, headache, nausea, vomiting, tremor, etc.; cardioselective β-blocker may be used as an antidote.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Salbutamol