Salbutamol

Generic name: salbutamol

Brand names: Ventolin, Airomir, Asthalin, Asmatol, Azmasol, SalAir, Salamol, Respigen and more

Dosage form: metered-dose aerosol inhalation (inhaler), inhalation powder (dry powder inhaler), solution for inhalation, oral syrup, oral tablet, intravenous (infusion) injection, intravenous (bolus) injection, subcutaneous injection, intramuscular injectio

Drug Class: Short-acting β2-adrenergic receptor agonists (SABAs)

Route of Administration: Inhalation, Oral

Dose: Inhaler: 90 mcg per actuation; Tablet: 2 mg, 4 mg; Extended-release tablet: 4 mg, 8 mg; Nebulizer solution: 0.5%, 2.5 mg/3 mL

Mechanism of Action: Salbutamol (Albuterol) is a bronchodilator that works by stimulating β2-adrenergic receptors in the bronchial smooth muscles, leading to relaxation of the muscles and subsequent bronchodilation. This mechanism helps to open up the airways, making it easier to breathe and providing relief from symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness associated with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung diseases.

Drug Usage Cases: Salbutamol is primarily used for the relief and prevention of bronchospasm in patients with reversible obstructive airway diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is also used for the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm. The inhaler form provides rapid relief from acute asthma attacks, while the tablet or syrup form is used for longer-term management.

Drug Contraindications: Salbutamol should not be used by patients who are allergic to albuterol or any of its ingredients. It is contraindicated in patients with severe hypersensitivity to sympathomimetic amines. Use caution in patients with certain conditions, including:

• Heart disease
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms)
• Hyperthyroidism
• Diabetes
• Seizure disorders

Before using salbutamol, inform your doctor if you have any of these conditions to prevent possible complications.

Side Effects: Common side effects of salbutamol may include nervousness, tremor, headache, dizziness, throat irritation, dry mouth, and nausea. More serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:

Signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat). Chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeats. Severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears. Tremors, nervousness, or seizures (convulsions). Low potassium levels (hypokalemia) – leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness, or tingling

Warnings: Overuse of salbutamol can lead to worsening symptoms or decreased effectiveness of the drug. It is important to use the inhaler only as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Salbutamol may cause paradoxical bronchospasm, which can be life-threatening. If you experience wheezing or difficulty breathing after using this medication, seek medical attention immediately. Use caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, convulsive disorders, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes. Avoid using other bronchodilators or adrenergic drugs concurrently without medical supervision.

Use During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: Salbutamol is categorized as pregnancy category C, meaning risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out. It should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor. There is limited data on the excretion of salbutamol in human milk. It is advised to consult with a healthcare provider regarding its use while breastfeeding.