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Salbutamol

Salbutamol is a bronchodilator of the beta2-agonist class. It relieves bronchospasm in asthma and in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and it acts within minutes of being inhaled. MayChemist supplies it as the Ventolin Inhaler, a pressurised inhaler delivering 100mcg per actuation.

Medicine containing Salbutamol

Ventolin Inhaler

Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

100mcg

Ventolin Inhaler contains salbutamol and is used for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is a pressurised inhalation solution supplied in one strength and several pack sizes. Each option lists its price per inhaler.

FromUS$20.40/ inhalerView

Key points

  • Salbutamol is a short-acting beta2-agonist, used for relief of bronchospasm.
  • Inhaled, it starts working in 5 to 15 minutes and its effect lasts 4 to 6 hours.
  • It is suitable for children when an adult helps with use.

What salbutamol is used for

Salbutamol is used to relieve bronchospasm in Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. In both conditions the airways narrow as the muscle in their walls tightens, and salbutamol relaxes that muscle so breathing becomes easier. It belongs with the other medicines grouped under Respiratory Health.

How it works

Salbutamol is a beta2-adrenergic agonist. It attaches to beta2 receptors on the smooth muscle of the bronchial walls, and the muscle relaxes quickly, opening the airways. Because the effect arrives fast, it is used for relief when breathing becomes difficult rather than as a slow-building treatment.

Forms and brands on MayChemist

The Ventolin Inhaler is the salbutamol product listed here: an inhaler containing 100mcg, indicated for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Salbutamol is prepared as a pressurised inhalation and as a solution. Orders are prepared by pharmacy partners in India and shipped to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

Safety

Do not use salbutamol if you are hypersensitive to it. Check that your inhalation technique is correct, and do not exceed the recommended frequency of use. Tremor and headache are the minor effects; palpitations and tachycardia are moderate ones. Paradoxical bronchospasm is serious and needs immediate medical attention. Beta-blockers interact with salbutamol and can work against it. In pregnancy, use depends on clinical judgement weighing the benefit to the mother; while breastfeeding, watch the infant for possible effects.

What the sources say

  • Salbutamol, called albuterol in the United States, is a short-acting beta2-agonist indicated for relief of bronchospasm in adults and children aged 6 and over with reversible obstructive airway disease. (DailyMed)
  • Leaning on frequent extra use, or a sudden rise in dose, points to asthma that is poorly controlled or getting worse. (Ventolin Accuhaler SmPC)
  • Overuse can hide the progression of the underlying disease and add to deteriorating control, raising the risk of severe exacerbations and of mortality. (Ventolin Accuhaler SmPC)
  • In acute severe asthma, particular caution is advised, since the effect may be potentiated by hypoxia and by xanthines, steroids and diuretics given at the same time. (Ventolin Accuhaler SmPC)

Further reading

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