Salbutamol
Short-acting beta2 agonist (SABA) · Respiratory
Generic name: Albuterol
Indications
- Acute asthma/COPD exacerbation
- Exercise-induced bronchospasm
- Hyperkalaemia (nebulised)
Dosing
- Adult
- Inhaler: 100–200 mcg (1–2 puffs) PRN; Nebuliser: 2.5–5 mg; Acute severe asthma: 5–10 mg
- Paediatric
- Inhaler: 100 mcg (1 puff) PRN; Nebuliser: 2.5 mg
Routes
- Inhaled
- Nebulised
- IV (critical care only)
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to salbutamol
Side effects
- Tachycardia
- Tremor
- Hypokalaemia
- Headache
Monitoring
- HR and SpO2 during acute use
- Potassium if high-dose IV
Key interactions
- Non-selective beta-blockers (bronchospasm)
- Theophylline (hypokalaemia)
Reviewed by DocBuddy Clinical Team on . Written as a study aid for medical students. Always check a current local formulary before prescribing.
Practise the pharmacology
Questions on Salbutamol and the rest of respiratory pharmacology are in the app, with the drug cards a tap away while you answer.