Salbutamol Overview
Salbutamol, also known as albuterol and marketed under brand names such as Ventolin, is a medication used to open up the medium and large airways in the lungs. It is a short-acting beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist, which works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways, leading to their dilation.
- Molecular Weight: 239.311 g/mol
- Chemical Formula: C13H21NO3
- Onset of Action: Less than 15 minutes (inhaled), less than 30 minutes (oral)
- Duration of Action: 2-6 hours
- Alternative Names: Albuterol (USAN)
Uses of Albuterol (Salbutamol) Sulfate Tablets
Albuterol is used to treat respiratory difficulties caused by conditions such as:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
As a bronchodilator, it relaxes the muscles around the airways to improve breathing. Controlling breathing symptoms can reduce time lost from work or school.
Administration
- Route: Oral
- Frequency: 3 to 4 times daily as prescribed
- Dosage:
- Adults and children over 12 years: No more than 32 mg/day
- Children aged 6 to 12 years: No more than 24 mg/day
Instructions for Use
- Take at the same time daily for maximum benefit.
- Do not exceed the prescribed dosage to avoid severe side effects.
- For sudden breathing difficulties, use a quick-relief inhaler as recommended by your doctor.
Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Nervousness
- Trembling (tremors)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Increased blood pressure
Serious side effects:
- Fast/pounding heartbeats
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Paradoxical bronchospasm (sudden worsening of breathing problems)
Precautions
Before using albuterol, inform your doctor if you have:
- Allergies to albuterol or similar drugs
- Heart problems (irregular heartbeat, angina, heart attack)
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Seizures
Avoid activities requiring alertness (e.g., driving) until you know how the drug affects you. Limit alcohol and cannabis use.
Interactions
Drug interactions can affect efficacy or increase side effects. Inform your doctor about all medications you use, including prescription, nonprescription, and herbal products. Notable interactions include:
- Blood thinners
- Certain anesthetics
Storage
- Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
- Do not freeze or store in the bathroom.
- Properly dispose of expired or no longer needed medication.
Overdose and Missed Dose
- Overdose: Can be harmful. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose symptoms occur (e.g., passing out, severe breathing problems).
- Missed Dose: Take as soon as you remember. Skip if it’s close to the next dose. Do not double up doses.
Salbutamol Warnings
Patients with severe asthma should not rely solely on bronchodilators. Routine medical exams and possibly oral corticosteroid therapy may be necessary. If the effectiveness of salbutamol decreases, consult a doctor.
Salbutamol vs. Ambroxol
| Property | Salbutamol | Ambroxol |
|---|---|---|
| Also known as | Albuterol | Ambroxol hydrochloride |
| Molar Mass | 239.311 g/mol | 378.1028 g/mol |
| Chemical Formula | C13H21NO3 | C13H18Br2N2O |
| Function | Opens airways in the lungs | Treats respiratory diseases |
| Uses | Asthma and COPD | Mucolytic medication |
