What is salbutamol?
Salbutamol is a fast-acting beta-2-sympathomimetic (SABA), which is used as an emergency medication for acute breathing. It expands the narrowed bronchi within minutes and thus allows free breathing again.
The drug is mainly used as a dosage aerosol and is the world's most commonly used asthma emergency medication. It should be used if necessary, not as regular continuous therapy.
Known brand names are Sultanol®, Ventolin® and numerous generics.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Salbutamol
Salbutamol acts by activating the beta-2-receptors in the bronchial muscle:
Active mechanism: 1. Salbutamol binds to beta-2-adrenoceptors in the bronchi Two. This activates the adenylate cyclase and increases the cAMP level in the cells 3. The smooth muscles of the bronchi relax 4. The narrowed airways open
Language:
- Effective entry: 1-5 minutes after inhalation
- Maximum effect: 15-30 minutes
- duration of action: 4-6 hours
Additional effects:
- Inhibits the release of mediators from mast cells
- Improves the mucociliary clearance (seam removal)
- No relevant anti-inflammatory effect
Who is it suitable for?
Salbutamol is suitable for:
- Acute asthma attacks (emergency treatment)
- COPD extracts
- Load-induced asthma (before sports)
- As a demand medication for short breathability
Important areas of application:
- Asthma bronchiale
- Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD)
- Bronchospasm of various causes
Not suitable as:
- Only treatment for asthma (controller therapy required!)
- Permanent therapy for regular complaints
- replacement for corticoid inhalers
Warning signal: If salbutamol is required more than 2x per week, asthma control is inadequate – check therapy!
Available Dosages
Dosieraerosol (spray):
- 100 μg per stroke
- Package sizes: 200 strokes
Powder inhaler:
- 100 μg or 200 μg per dose
Inhalation solution (for nebulisers):
- 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg or 5 mg per ampoule
Recommended dosage:
- Adults: 1-2 strokes if required
- Children: 1 stroke if required
- Maximum: 8-12 strokes per day (at regular request visit doctor!)
How to Take
Right inhalation technology (Dosieraerosol): 1. Remove protective cap, shake spray Two. Deep exhalation 3. Close the mouthpiece 4. On slow, deep inhalation trigger the spray Five. Keep breath 10 seconds 6. Breathe slowly 7. Wait for 30 seconds at second stroke
With Spacer (recommended):
- Spray spray in Spacer
- Normally breathe 5-6 times
- Better distribution of active ingredients, fewer side effects
In case of acute breathing:
- 2-4 strokes, repeat after 10-20 minutes if necessary
- In case of severe breath, call emergency doctor immediately!
Before sport:
- 1-2 strokes 15-30 minutes before load
Contraindications
**Salbutamol may not be used at:* *
- hypersensitivity to salbutamol or components
Preview at:
- Heavy cardiovascular diseases
- Hyperthyroidism
- phenochromocytoma
- Diabetes mellitus (can increase blood sugar)
- Hypokaliemia (lower potassium)
- QT extension
pregnant: Can be used with appropriate indication. In asthma, control of the disease is more important than theoretical risks.
Style time: Application possible, active substance is only minimally converted into breast milk.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Tremor (trembling, especially hands)
- Heart palpitations, tachycardia
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps
** Occasionally (0,1-1%):* *
- Unrest, nervousness
- Squeeze
- Mouth dryness
- nausea
Selten:
- Heart rhythm disorders
- Hypokaliemia (at high doses)
- Paradox bronchospasmus
- Allergic reactions
** Many side effects occur more frequently in oral administration than inhalation. Local application minimizes systemic effects.
Interactions
Reactions with:
- Betablockers – can eliminate the effect of salbutamol
- Avoid non-selective beta blockers at Asthma!
- MAO inhibitors – enhanced cardiovascular effects
- Tricyclic antidepressants – enhanced heart action
- corticoids, diuretics – increased hypokalemia risk
Synergistic effect with:
- Inhalative corticoids (sense combination)
- Anticholinergics (e.g. Ipratropium)
** For stable asthma, salbutamol should be used as rare as possible – frequent need indicates insufficient control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is salbutamol right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.