Salbutamol is used on its own or together with other medicines to manage breathing problems caused by asthma. It is a bronchodilator that helps to treat asthma or chest illnesses by relaxing the airways of the lungs, relieving chest tightness, wheezing, and cough so you can breathe more easily.
Use Salbutamol exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as different types of devices, such as accuhaler, evohaler, or diskhaler. Salbutamol is also available as a nebulising solution to be used with a machine known as a nebuliser.
Make sure you know how to use the specific device you have been given. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you how to use it.
Do not wash or put any part of your inhaler in water.
Do not share your inhaler with others as it could spread infection.
The dose of this medicine will be discussed by your doctor. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions as to how many blisters to take and how often to use your inhaler.
Inform your doctor if your medicine does not seem to be working as well as usual, as your chest problem may be getting worse and you may need a different medicine.
If you are using this medicine to relieve asthma brought on by exercise, use your inhaler 10-15 minutes before you exercise.
Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to administer your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease e.g. irregular heartbeat, heart failure, high blood pressure
- kidney disease
- glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
- thyroid problems e.g. overactive thyroid
- diabetes
- low levels of potassium in your blood
- seizures
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are using a nebuliser mask, make sure that it fits well on your face. Do not allow the nebulising solution to enter your eyes. If the solution gets into your eyes, flush with clean water immediately. See a doctor quickly if you experience any problems with your eyesight after the solution or mist enters your eyes.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly. Routine tests (e.g. lung function, potassium levels) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Salbutamol may cause any of the following side effects: palpitations, involuntary shaking of the hands or legs, rapid heartbeat, headache, and nausea.
If your breathing or wheezing gets worse, inform your doctor as soon as possible.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth, stop using Salbutamol and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- severe dizziness or headache, passing out
- abnormal heartbeat, chest pain
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other asthma medicines e.g. theophylline, aminophylline
- medicines for heart disease e.g. digoxin, propranolol
- diuretics (water pill) e.g. furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide
- anti-inflammatory medicine e.g. prednisone, fluticasone
- medicines for depression e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine, phenelzine
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Throw away the canister after the indicated number of doses is used up.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Sign Out
