Salbutamol (Albuterol)

What Does Salbutamol (Albuterol) Do?

Salbutamol, also termed as albuterol, is used foremost for treating asthma and bronchospasms. Prescribed primarily for conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, this drug ensures relief by widening the airways. 

How Does Salbutamol Work? (the complicated stuff)

Salbutamol, a short-acting ?2-adrenergic receptor agonist, works by binding to ?2-adrenergic receptors on the smooth muscle cells in the airways when inhaled. This triggers an intracellular signalling cascade leading to the relaxation of these muscles, causing the airways to widen (bronchodilation) and easing breathing. Salbutamol also helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways by inhibiting the release of mediators from mast cells.

Drug Type and Category of Salbutamol 

Salbutamol falls under the drug type of short-acting ?2-adrenergic receptor agonists.

What dosage of Salbutamol should you be taking?

The recommended dosage of salbutamol (albuterol) inhaler depends on the age and condition of the patient:

Asthma symptoms and bronchospasm:

• Adults: 1-2 puffs every 4 hours, up to a maximum of 8 puffs (4 doses) in 24 hours. To prevent symptoms, 2 puffs 15 minutes before exposure. ^1,2
• Children: 1 puff (increased to 2 puffs if required) every 4 hours, up to a maximum of 8 puffs (4 doses) in 24 hours. To prevent symptoms, 1 puff (increased to 2 puffs if required) 15 minutes before exposure. ^1,2

Severe bronchospasm and status asthmaticus:

• Adults: For subcutaneous or intramuscular injection, the recommended dose is 500 micrograms (8 micrograms/kg bodyweight) and repeated every 4 hours as required. ² 
• For intravenous infusion, the recommended starting dose is 250 micrograms (4 micrograms/kg bodyweight) injected slowly, with infusion rates of 3 to 20 micrograms per minute generally adequate. ²

What are the side-effects of Salbutamol (Albuterol)?

Common side effects:

• Feeling shaky or trembling or having a tremor - this is very common. 
• Headache 
• Faster heartbeat for a short time 
• Nervousness and restlessness
• Muscle cramps 
• Nausea 
• Mouth/throat dryness or irritation 
• Unusual taste 

Serious side effects:

• Chest pain, especially if accompanied by fast or irregular heartbeat 
• Low potassium levels, which can cause muscle pain, weakness, or abnormal heart rhythms 
• Severe dizziness or fainting 
• Serious allergic reactions like swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, and collapse

Salbutamol is generally safe when used as directed, but these more serious side effects require immediate medical attention. 

Drug Interactions

Major Interactions

• Beta-blockers (e.g. atenolol, propranolol): Can decrease the effectiveness of salbutamol
• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline, doxepin): May interact with salbutamol, potentially increasing the risk of side effects

Moderate Interactions

• Diuretics (e.g. furosemide): Can increase the risk of low potassium levels when used with salbutamol
• Decongestants (e.g. pseudoephedrine): Can increase the risk of side effects like high blood pressure when used with salbutamol
• Antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g. amiodarone, procainamide): May interact with salbutamol, potentially affecting heart rhythm
• Theophylline: Can increase the risk of side effects when used with salbutamol

Potential Interactions

• Corticosteroids: Concurrent use with salbutamol is common in asthma treatment, but may increase the risk of side effects
• General anesthetics: May interact with salbutamol to cause heart problems and low blood pressure

Natural Alternatives to Salbutamol (Albuterol)

Here are some natural alternatives that may help relieve asthma symptoms, although more research is needed on their effectiveness:

Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and biofeedback can help relieve stress and open airways. ^3,4 Yoga combines physical poses with controlled breathing and has been shown to improve lung function and quality of life in people with asthma. ⁴

Herbs and Supplements

• Turmeric contains curcumin which has anti-inflammatory properties and may help relax bronchial muscles. ⁷
• Ginseng may boost the immune system and reduce airway inflammation. ⁷
• Garlic contains allicin which can help fight inflammation and oxidative stress. ⁷
• Anti-asthma herbal intervention (ASHMI), a blend of 3 Chinese herbs, may improve symptoms and reduce need for corticosteroids. ⁷
• Black seed oil (Nigella sativa) contains thymoquinone which has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects. ⁷

Honey

Honey has a natural soothing effect on the throat, coats and soothes irritated airways, and can act as a natural expectorant to loosen mucus. ⁷ Mix it with warm water or tea.

Omega-3 Oils

Omega-3 oils found in fish and flax seeds are associated with decreased airway inflammation, but may not provide as much benefit for those taking high-dose oral steroids. ⁵

While these natural remedies may provide some relief, they should not replace prescribed asthma medications without consulting your doctor, especially if you are prone to asthma attacks. However, it is important that you have received an accurate diagnosis of asthma. Our experience is that many people are diagnosed with asthma, but don’t actually have asthma. More research is needed on their long-term effectiveness and safety compared to standard asthma treatments like salbutamol. ^4,5,6 

Interesting facts about Salbutamol (Albuterol)

Salbutamol is available in various forms including inhalers, nebulising solutions, oral solutions, tablets and extended-release tablets. Generic versions are widely available. 

Salbutamol is generally considered safe to use in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. There is no evidence that it reduces fertility in men or women.

Salbutamol was first synthesised in 1966 by the British chemist David Jack. It was developed by the pharmaceutical company Allen & Hanburys, which is now part of GlaxoSmithKline.

Disclaimer

This article is generated for informational purposes only. It was created in December 2024. Medications and medical guidance can change over time. Therefore, it is essential to consult with your general practitioner or healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding medications or treatment plans. Your GP can provide personalised advice based on your specific health needs and conditions.

References:

1. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/salbutamol-inhaler/
2. https://www.drugs.com/salbutamol.html
3. https://www.webmd.com/asthma/natural-cure-asthma
4. https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/what-is-asthma/natural-asthma-treatments/
5. https://www.healthline.com/health/severe-asthma/natural-remedies
6. https://www.everydayhealth.com/asthma/natural-remedies-for-asthma.aspx
7. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/herbs-for-asthma-relief