Albuterol is primarily used to prevent and treat breathing difficulties, including wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness associated with lung diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)[3]. It is also commonly used to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm[3].
As a short-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (SABA), albuterol works by relaxing and opening the air passages in the lungs, making it easier to breathe[1][4][7]. This medication provides rapid relief from acute symptoms of bronchospasm, and its inhaled form is frequently used as a “rescue” or quick-relief inhaler[5].
Additional uses for albuterol include:
- Treatment of asthma attacks in both adults and children[3][5].
- Management of bronchospasm due to COPD in adult patients[3][5].
- Prevention of asthma symptoms triggered by physical activity[3][7].
- Off-label use as an adjuvant treatment for hyperkalemia in certain clinical situations[5].
Albuterol is available in various forms including metered-dose inhalers, nebulizer solutions, and oral formulations suitable for different age groups and clinical needs[3][7].