Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/16/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Ventolin, ProAir, Proventil
  
• Generic Name: Albuterol
  
• Uses: Treating and preventing bronchospasm in people with asthma and symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases; relieving exercise-induced bronchospasm.
  
• Drug Class: Bronchodilator
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Albuterol is a medication used to prevent and treat bronchospasm symptoms caused by asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is also used to relieve exercise-induced bronchospasms (bronchospasm symptoms that occur after or during exercise).

Albuterol belongs to a class of medications known as bronchodilators.

Albuterol is used to treat and prevent the symptoms of bronchospasm (the tightening of muscles that line the airways of your lungs) in patients with asthma and other lung conditions. Albuterol does not cure these conditions; rather, it mitigates the uncomfortable, painful, and sometimes dangerous symptoms caused by them.

Common bronchospasm symptoms include:

• Coughing
  
• Wheezing
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Chest tightness
  
  

Albuterol belongs to a class of medications known as bronchodilators. During bronchospasms, these medications help relax the muscles surrounding the airways in the lungs (known as the bronchi). Bronchospasm is the medical term for the tightening and inflammation of these airways.

Bronchospasms commonly occur after exercise or exposure to an irritant (such as secondhand smoke or airborne allergens). Bronchodilators help people mitigate and prevent the symptoms listed above by relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways and encouraging airflow to and from the lungs. Albuterol does not cure asthma or lung disease but can improve quality of life and prevent potentially severe breathing problems.

Albuterol is available in the following forms:

• Inhalation aerosol (metered-dose inhaler)
  
• Inhalation powder (dry powder inhaler)
  
• Inhalation solution (for use with a nebulizer)
  
• Oral tablets
  
• Syrup
  
  

The dosage and frequency of use depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and how you respond to the medication.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency of use without consulting your provider.

Albuterol typically provides relief from bronchospasm symptoms within minutes of inhalation.

Continue using albuterol as prescribed even if you start feeling better. Regular use according to your prescription plan is crucial for managing conditions like asthma.

While albuterol is primarily used to treat bronchospasm associated with conditions like asthma, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe it off-label for other uses.

Discuss any alternative uses of albuterol with your healthcare provider.

Albuterol is available in the following dosage forms:

• Inhalation aerosol: Commonly used with a metered-dose inhaler.
  
• Inhalation powder: Available for use in certain dry powder inhalers.
  
• Inhalation solution: Used with nebulizers.
  
• Oral tablets: Less commonly used, available in various doses.
  
• Syrup: An option for individuals who prefer a liquid form.
  
  

Generic versions of albuterol are available.

Albuterol is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.