Albuterol: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Albuterol is a beta-2-adrenergic agonist bronchodilator prescribed to treat or prevent bronchospasm in patients aged 4 years and older with reversible obstructive airway disease, and to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm. It requires a prescription in the United Kingdom. Generic versions have been available since December 1989.

Albuterol is indicated for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in patients 4 years of age and older with reversible obstructive airway disease. This includes conditions such as asthma where the airways narrow and breathing becomes difficult.

The medicine is also used to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm in patients 4 years of age and older, helping to keep airways open before physical activity that might otherwise trigger wheezing or shortness of breath. Albuterol works quickly to relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe during an acute episode or before anticipated triggers.

Albuterol belongs to a class of medicines known as beta-2-adrenergic agonists. These medicines work by stimulating beta-2 receptors found in the smooth muscle that lines the airways of the lungs. When albuterol binds to these receptors, it causes the muscles to relax, which widens the airways and makes breathing easier.

This bronchodilator effect happens relatively quickly after inhalation, providing rapid relief from symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Albuterol is often referred to as a rescue inhaler because it acts fast to open the airways during an asthma attack or breathing difficulty.

The label lists metered aerosol inhalers delivering 90 micrograms, 108 micrograms, and powder forms at 90 micrograms per actuation. Inhalation solution strengths include 0.63 mg/3 mL, 0.83 mg/mL, 1.25 mg/3 mL, 2.5 mg/0.5 mL, and 2.5 mg/3 mL. Oral forms include syrup at 2 mg/5 mL and tablets in 2 mg and 4 mg strengths.

For treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adults and children 4 years and older, the usual starting dose is 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours. In some patients, one inhalation every 4 hours may be sufficient. For prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm, the usual starting dose is 2 inhalations 15 to 30 minutes before exercise.

If a dose of albuterol is missed, the approach depends on whether it is being used on a regular schedule or only as needed for symptoms. For scheduled dosing, if a dose is missed and it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Because albuterol is often used as a rescue medicine taken only when symptoms occur, missing a scheduled dose may mean resuming use when breathing difficulty returns. Speak to a pharmacist if uncertain.

There are no randomised clinical studies of albuterol use during pregnancy. Available data from published studies and postmarketing reports do not consistently demonstrate a risk of major birth defects or miscarriage following inhaled albuterol use. Animal reproduction studies showed cleft palate formation in mice at certain doses.

In women with poorly or moderately controlled asthma, there is an increased risk of preeclampsia and complications such as prematurity and low birth weight in the newborn. Pregnant women should be closely monitored and medication adjusted as necessary. Use during labour should be restricted to patients in whom the benefits clearly outweigh the risk.

There are no available data on the presence of albuterol in human milk, though plasma levels after inhaled therapeutic doses are low and albuterol has low oral bioavailability. Discuss the use of albuterol during pregnancy or breastfeeding with a doctor or pharmacist.

The label lists storage at 20 degrees to 25 degrees Celsius, with permitted excursions to 15 degrees to 30 degrees Celsius. The canister is under pressure and must not be punctured or incinerated. Protect from freezing temperatures and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Exposure to temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit may cause bursting. To maintain quality, the canister should be at room temperature before use. Keep out of reach of children.