Salbutamol is another name for the medication albuterol. Salbutamol is a commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of asthma. It is often used as a quick-relief medications because, when inhaled, it has a very rapid effect on the airways of asthmatics, though its effects also wear off rather quickly. Although this medication is widely used, it can have a number of side effects.
Respiratory
The main effect that salbutamol has involves the respiratory system. The muscles that surround the airways relax in response to the hormone adrenaline. Salbutamol is able to mimic adrenaline and bind to these proteins, causing the muscles around the airways to relax. This causes the airways to expand, which makes it easier for air to pass through and get to the lungs. However, salbutamol can also make patients more likely to develop upper respiratory infections because the relaxed airways are easier for pathogens to infiltrate. Patients who use this medication may also experience inflammation of the nasal and sinus passages, which can result in a runny nose and congestion. This runny nose can also result in coughing as a result of post-nasal drip. In rare cases this medication can actually result in an exacerbation of breathing problems.
Cardiovascular
Patients who use this medication regularly may experience heart palpitations. More serious side effects, according to EMedTV, include elevated blood pressure, an irregular heart beat and an abnormally fast heart beat, or tachycardia.
Nervous
This medication can result in the development tremors, RxList explains, because it activates portions of the nervous system that respond to adrenaline. Patients who use salbutamol on a regular basis may suffer from nervousness and anxiety. This medication can also result in problems with falling or staying asleep.
Gastrointestinal
Salbutamol can disrupt the gastrointestinal system, with the most common side effects being nausea and vomiting.
Pain
Salbutamol use can also result in unusual or unexplained pain in the muscles and bones, EMedTV reports.
Allergies
Some people are allergic to salbutamol. The mildest types of allergies result in an outbreak of hives, which can occur anywhere on the body, or an itchy or red rash. Moderate allergic reactions cause swelling, which may affect the fingers and feet, as well as the tongue, lips and face. Anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency, is an unusually severe allergic reaction which can cause chest tightness and hoarseness. If the airways are affected, it can make it hard for the patient to breathe.
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