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Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) bronchodilator (reliever inhaler)

Salbutamol: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Ventolin, ProAir, Proventil, Airomir, Salamol.

Diese Informationen dienen ausschließlich der allgemeinen Orientierung und stellen keine medizinische Beratung dar. Konsultieren Sie bei persönlichen gesundheitlichen Anliegen stets eine qualifizierte medizinische Fachkraft. Wählen Sie im Notfall Ihre örtliche Notrufnummer.

What it is used for

  • Asthma (relief of sudden symptoms)
  • Wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Preventing exercise-induced breathing symptoms
  • Quick relief during an asthma attack

How it works

Salbutamol relaxes the muscles around the airways, opening them up so air can move more freely. This quickly relieves wheezing and breathlessness, which is why it is known as a reliever.

How it is taken

Most often used as a metered-dose or dry-powder inhaler (sometimes with a spacer), and also as a nebuliser solution, tablets, or injection in medical settings. The inhaler is breathed in. Use it exactly as your doctor, asthma nurse, or pharmacist has shown you and as the label directs.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Shakiness or trembling (especially in the hands)
  • Fast or pounding heartbeat
  • Headache
  • Muscle cramps
  • Feeling restless or nervous

Serious effects — get help

  • Needing your reliever more often or it working less well (sign of worsening asthma — seek urgent review)
  • Chest pain or a very fast/irregular heartbeat
  • Sudden worsening of breathing or wheeze after use (seek emergency help)
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Other medicines for the heart or blood pressure (especially beta-blockers, which can oppose its effect)
  • Some water tablets (diuretics) and other asthma medicines (may affect potassium levels)
  • Certain antidepressants and theophylline

Who should take care

  • Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
  • Caution with heart conditions, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, or diabetes
  • If you are using your reliever very often, your asthma may not be well controlled — see your clinician
  • Always carry your reliever inhaler and know how to use it correctly

Frequently asked questions

Is salbutamol a reliever or preventer inhaler?
It is a reliever (quick-relief) inhaler that eases symptoms fast. It does not control underlying inflammation, which is the job of a preventer inhaler.
How often should I need my salbutamol inhaler?
If you are using it more than your clinician advised, or it helps less than usual, your asthma may be poorly controlled — book a review promptly.
Why do my hands shake after using it?
Mild trembling and a faster heartbeat are common, harmless effects that usually pass quickly.
What should I do during an asthma attack?
Follow your personal asthma action plan. If your reliever is not helping or symptoms are severe, treat it as an emergency and get medical help immediately.
Is Salbutamol safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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