Common Brand Names: Ventolin, ProAir, Proventil
Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on April 18, 2025
Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request an Online Prescription
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:
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:
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:
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.
The use of albuterol can lead to various side effects in some individuals.
Common mild side effects of albuterol use include:
More severe side effects of albuterol use can include:
If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking albuterol, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with albuterol. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with albuterol.
Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:
You should also mention medical conditions such as:
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using albuterol to assess potential risks and benefits.
Take albuterol exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or frequency of use.
Albuterol is typically used with an inhaler or nebulizer; make sure you know how to use these devices correctly. It's important to use the medication only when needed or as regularly prescribed to control symptoms.
In case of an albuterol overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe forms of the side effects listed above, such as severe dizziness, chest pain, or unusually fast heartbeats. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.
Albuterol is available in the following forms:
The typical starting dose of albuterol varies depending on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and administration.
For asthma and reversible obstructive airway diseases:
For preventing exercise-induced bronchospasm:
The dosage may be adjusted based on the response and tolerance to the medication. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate dose based on your medical history and your response to the medication.
Albuterol should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or frequency of use without consulting your provider.
If you have any questions about your dosage or need adjustments, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. If you want to talk to a provider right away, consider scheduling an online doctor appointment through a telehealth platform like Sesame.
If you miss a dose of albuterol, use it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Use albuterol at the same time every day if it is prescribed for regular use to ensure effectiveness.
Continue using albuterol as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. For chronic conditions like asthma, regular use according to your prescription plan is crucial for managing the condition effectively.
If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, discuss them with your healthcare provider for medical advice and recommendations.
Store albuterol according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Keep it at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Ensure the container is tightly closed and out of reach of children.
Do not use expired medication or medications that appear damaged or discolored. If you have any questions about storage, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.