Salbutamol – Fast-acting bronchodilator for asthma and breathing relief.
Get expert medical advice and same-day prescriptions from qualified UK doctors through our secure online consultation platform.
- Professional online consultation and prescription
- Same-day service when clinically appropriate
- Secure delivery to your chosen pharmacy
Secure Telehealth Platform Trusted by Over 150,000 Patients
What is Salbutamol?
Salbutamol is a fast-acting bronchodilator inhaler (often called a ‘blue inhaler’ or ‘reliever inhaler’) used to quickly relieve asthma symptoms and breathing difficulties. It works within minutes to open up the airways and provide rapid relief from wheezing and shortness of breath.
Book an online consultation if you’re experiencing breathing difficulties, wheezing, or suspected asthma symptoms. Our GPs can assess your condition and determine if salbutamol or other respiratory medications are appropriate for you.
What is Salbutamol used for?
- Asthma attacks and wheezing
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Exercise-induced bronchospasm
- Acute shortness of breath
- Bronchitis with wheeze
- Prevention of exercise-induced asthma
How does Salbutamol work?
A short-acting beta-2 agonist that relaxes the smooth muscles in the airways, opening them up and making breathing easier within minutes.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
1-2 puffs as needed for symptoms, up to 4 times daily. Maximum 8 puffs in 24 hours.
Children
1 puff as needed for symptoms—dose may vary based on age and severity.
Important Notes
- Use only when needed for symptoms or before exercise if prescribed.
- Wait 30-60 seconds between puffs if taking more than one.
- Always carry your inhaler with you for emergency use.
- Use a spacer device for better drug delivery if recommended.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Tremor (shaking), especially of hands
- Rapid heart rate (palpitations)
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
- Nervousness or anxiety
- Throat irritation
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Chest pain
- Very rapid or irregular heart beat
- Severe tremor affecting daily activities
- Worsening of breathing problems
Important Warnings
- If you need to use your inhaler more than 4 times daily, see your GP—your asthma may be poorly controlled.
- Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms don't improve after using inhaler.
- Tell your GP if you have heart problems, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
- May affect blood sugar levels in diabetics.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Beta-blockers—may reduce effectiveness of salbutamol.
- Diuretics—may increase risk of low potassium levels.
- Digoxin—salbutamol may increase digoxin effects.
- MAOIs and tricyclic antidepressants—may increase cardiovascular side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use my salbutamol inhaler?
Use it when you experience asthma symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness. It can also be used before exercise if prescribed for exercise-induced asthma.
How quickly should salbutamol work?
You should feel relief within 5-15 minutes. If there's no improvement after 15 minutes, seek immediate medical attention.
Can I use salbutamol every day?
Salbutamol is a 'reliever' inhaler for symptoms only. If you need it daily, your asthma isn't well controlled and you may need a 'preventer' inhaler too.
Why do my hands shake after using the inhaler?
Tremor is a common side effect because salbutamol affects muscles throughout the body, not just the airways. This usually improves with regular use.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14