Salbutamol

Common Name: salbutamol

How does Salbutamol work?

Salbutamol is a bronchodilator used for the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other breathing disorders. It works by opening the airways and making breathing easier. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Salbutamol?

The dosage depends on the system being used to inhale the drug (aerosol inhaler or nebulizer solution). Aerosol inhaler: The usual dose to relieve asthma symptoms is 1-2 inhalations (also called "puffs"). For children 6 years and older, 1 puff is used; for adults, 1-2 puffs are used. More puffs may be needed to relieve symptoms during a more severe attack. The usual dose for long-term treatment of asthma is 1-2 puffs (or 1 puff in children 6 years and older) three or four times per day. The maximum daily dose is 8 puffs for adults and 4 puffs for children. For preventing exercise-induced asthma, the usual dose is 2 puffs before exercise for adults and 1 puff before exercise for children. Dosage is usually individualized by the doctor. Nebulizer solution: The usual dose is 2.5 mg to 5.0 mg salbutamol (adults) or 1.25 mg to 2.5 mg salbutamol (children aged 5-12), given up to four times per day. To ensure administration of the proper dose of the drug, make sure you are instructed by the doctor, pharmacist or other health professional in the proper use of the inhaler, Diskhaler, Rotahaler, or nebulizer systems. The use of these inhalation systemsby children depends on the ability of the individual child to learn the proper use of the devices. During inhalation, children should be assisted or supervised by an adult who knows the proper use of the devices. It is very important not to exceed the prescribed dose. If difficulty in breathing persists, call your doctor at once. Always carry your salbutamol aerosol or dry powder to use immediately if an episode of asthma is experienced.

What form(s) does Salbutamol come in?

Nebules

What should I NOT take with Salbutamol?

Anyone allergic to any of the ingredients and those with abnormal heart rhythm associated with fast heart rate should not use this drug.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Salbutamol?

Use of anti-inflammatory agents: In accordance with the present practice for asthma treatment, use of anti-inflammatory medications therapy (e.g., corticosteroids such as inhaled beclomethasone, budesonide, or fluticasone) should be part of the regimen if inhaled salbutamol needs to be used on a regular daily basis. If asthma becomes worse (you need to use salbutamol more often, or it stops working) call the doctor for further instruction. Diabetes: Care should be taken by people with diabetes. Salbutamol can induce reversible high blood glucose during nebulized administration. Monitor blood glucose carefully under such conditions. Failure to respond: Failure to respond for at least 3 hours to a previously effective dose of salbutamol indicates that the asthma condition is getting worse and the doctor should be contacted promptly. Increasing use of fast-acting inhalers such as salbutamol to control symptoms is usually a sign of worsening asthma. Pregnancy: Salbutamol has been in widespread use for many years without apparent ill consequence. However, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies with pregnant women, and there is little published evidence of its safety in the early stages of human pregnancy. Administration of any drug to pregnant women should only be considered if the anticipated benefits to the expectant woman are greater than any possible risks. Breast-feeding: Since salbutamol is probably excreted in breast milk, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the benefit of the drug to the mother. It is not known whether salbutamol in breast milk has a harmful effect on the infant.