Salbutamol (also known as albuterol) is used to treat wheezing and shortness of breath caused by breathing problems (such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema). Salbutamol belongs to a class of drugs known as bronchodilators. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily.

This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

Although this use is not recommended by the manufacturer, this medication has also been used by pregnant women to stop early labor.

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start receiving salbutamol by injection. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given by injection into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually by a health care professional. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.

Nervousness, dizziness, shaking (tremor), trouble sleeping, headache, nausea, vomiting, or pain at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

• fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat
• muscle cramps/weakness
• increased thirst/urination

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including:

• chest pain
• rapid breathing
• confusion

Rarely, this medication has caused severe (rarely fatal), sudden worsening of breathing problems/asthma (paradoxical bronchospasm). If you experience sudden wheezing, get medical help right away.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using salbutamol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar drugs (such as levalbuterol, metaproterenol, salmeterol); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• diabetes
• heart problems (such as irregular heartbeat, angina, previous heart attack)
• high blood pressure
• seizure
• low blood potassium level (hypokalemia)

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It is not recommended for use during the first or second trimester of pregnancy by women who have an increased risk of miscarriage. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669. Symptoms of overdose may include: chest pain, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, headache, shaking (tremors), nervousness, weakness, severe dizziness, seizures.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, heart rate, EKG, blood potassium levels, blood sugar levels, lung function) may be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

Avoid allergens/irritants that can worsen breathing problems, such as smoke, pollen, pet dander, dust, or molds.

Learn to use a peak flow meter, use it daily, and promptly report worsening breathing problems (such as readings in the yellow/red range, increased use of quick-relief inhalers).

Because the flu virus can worsen breathing problems, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you should have a flu shot every year.

Not applicable.

Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).