Albuterol, also known as salbutamol, is an adrenergic bronchodilator. Bronchodilators assist in opening air passages to prevent and treat wheezing, making it easier for the patient to breathe. Albuterol is often used in conjunction with anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids. Albuterol brand names include Ventolin, Proventil, AccuNeb, ProAir and VoSpire ER.
Typical Use
Albuterol is typically prescribed to treat lung diseases such as asthma and bronchitis. Symptoms may also occur due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or allergic reaction. Albuterol relaxes the muscles along the air pathways to prevent spasms from occurring, and it assists in improving oxygen delivery.
Bronchospasms are contractions of the walls of the airways which cause the pathways to narrow, limiting the amount of air that passes though them. The lining of the airways may become swollen, irritated and inflamed. These reactions may cause wheezing and a feeling of tightness in the chest.
When used to treat asthma, albuterol is considered a "rescue" medication, as its effect is only temporary. Corticosteroids are considered "control" medications, as they have longer-term effects in the treatment of asthma symptoms.
Alternative Uses
Alternative uses for albuterol include the treatment of muscle paralysis and also to delay premature birth. Albuterol is used to delay birth by reducing uterine contractions during labor.
Treatment Forms
Albuterol comes in three major forms; a syrup, an aerosol inhaler, or in saline solution to be used in a nebulizer machine. The nebulizer converts the liquid into a mist for inhalation.
To prime the pump, prior to first-time use of the aerosol canister, pump the mist into the air three or four times. Also prime the pump if it has not been used for more than 4 days. Generally, one aerosol albuterol dose lasts up to around 6 hours. Dosage amount varies by prescription and canister size.
Albuterol syrup dosages vary by prescription. If stomach irritation occurs, albuterol syrup may be taken with food.
Side Effects/Warnings
Albuterol side effects may include headaches, nervousness or giddiness, inability to sleep, vomiting, nausea and increased blood pressure. Albuterol use in conjunction with caffeine use may increase side effects such as nervousness and sleeplessness.
Because of its ability to delay birth, only patients whose benefits outweigh the risks involved should take albuterol.
Only under special circumstances should patients taking beta-blockers also take albuterol. Beta blockers may cause bronchospasms, and they also may block the effects of albuterol.
