Salbutamol

Information about Salbutamol

Salbutamol uses

Salbutamol is used in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

How salbutamol works

Salbutamol is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways and widens airways. This makes breathing easier.

Common side effects of salbutamol

Tremors, Headache, Palpitations, Dizziness, Nervousness, Muscle cramp, Respiratory tract infection, Throat irritation, Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), Cough, Tachycardia, Nausea, Decreased potassium level in blood, Weakness, Irritability, Drowsiness, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Difficulty in urination, Increased glucose level in blood, Myocardial ischemia, Pulmonary edema, Hypersensitivity, Peripheral vasodilation, Akathisia (inability to stay still)

Available Medicine for Salbutamol

Expert advice for Salbutamol

  • Salbutamol is used to relieve symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as coughing, wheezing and breathlessness.
  • It must be taken regularly to help keep the airways open at all times.
  • Your doctor may regularly monitor your blood potassium levels. Inform your doctor if you notice muscle twitching, weakness, or an irregular heartbeat.
  • Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart diseases or if you experience headaches, or chest pain.

Frequently asked questions for Salbutamol

Salbutamol

Q. What would happen if I take higher than the recommended dose of Salbutamol?
Taking a higher than the recommended dose of Salbutamol may cause seizures, chest pain, nervousness, headache, dry mouth, nausea, dizziness and lack of energy. High doses of Salbutamol may also cause fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat, uncontrollable shaking of any part of the body, and difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. In any such case, seek immediate medical attention.
Q. Is it safe to take Salbutamol if I have heart disease?
Yes, Salbutamol is considered safe, but its use depends on the severity of your heart problem. If you experience chest pain or any other symptom of worsening heart disease while taking Salbutamol, seek immediate medical advice.
Q. Being a diabetic, what should I remember while taking Salbutamol?
Salbutamol may cause blood sugar levels to rise. Therefore, your doctor may adjust your dose of insulin or antidiabetic medicines. Keep a regular check on your blood glucose levels and do not miss any appointments. Consult your doctor if you experience a sudden rise in blood sugar levels.
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Q. I have started using Salbutamol and I am experiencing headaches and shakiness. Is this because of Salbutamol and will these go away?
Yes, it could be due to Salbutamol. Feeling shaky is a common side effect of Salbutamol which goes away after some time. For headaches, drink plenty of water, get sufficient rest and avoid alcohol. Usually headaches go away after a week. If they persist for a long time, contact your doctor.
Q. When should I take Salbutamol?
Use Salbutamol as and when you need it. Salbutamol relieves the symptoms of asthma like coughing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest. You can also take it to prevent asthma attacks in circumstances where you know it may occur (e.g., after strenuous exercise or unavoidable exposure to allergen).
Q. Can I smoke if I have been prescribed Salbutamol?
No, you should not smoke while taking Salbutamol. Smoking irritates the lungs. The medicine may make breathing more difficult, especially in patients who have asthma. Take advice from your doctor if you are finding it hard to avoid smoking.

Content on this page was last updated on 13 June, 2023, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)