Albuterol: Uses, Dosage and Inhaler Tips

Need fast relief from wheeze or shortness of breath? Albuterol (also called salbutamol) is the go-to short-acting bronchodilator used for asthma attacks and acute COPD symptoms. It opens airways quickly, so people reach for it when breathing gets hard.

How to use albuterol

Albuterol comes as a metered-dose inhaler (MDI), a nebulizer solution, and less commonly as an oral tablet. For most adults using an MDI, the usual dose is 1–2 puffs (90 mcg per puff) every 4–6 hours as needed. For a nebulizer, a common dose is 2.5 mg in saline once every 4–6 hours PRN. Always follow your doctor’s directions — some people need different doses.

Inhaler technique matters. Shake the inhaler, breathe out fully, place the mouthpiece between your lips, press once while breathing in slowly, hold your breath for 5–10 seconds, then breathe out. If you need a second puff, wait about 30–60 seconds. A spacer makes delivery easier and reduces throat spray — try one if coordination is hard.

Side effects & safety

Common side effects are shakiness, increased heart rate, nervousness, headache, and mild throat irritation. These usually pass quickly. Call your doctor or 911 if you get severe chest pain, racing heart that won’t slow, severe dizziness, or signs of an allergic reaction (swelling, rash, trouble breathing).

Be careful if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or certain thyroid problems — albuterol can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Beta-blocker medications (used for high blood pressure or migraines) may make albuterol less effective. Tell your provider about all meds you take, including over-the-counter decongestants.

If you use your rescue inhaler more than usual — like needing multiple treatments or using it several times a day — contact your healthcare provider. Frequent use can mean your asthma or COPD is not controlled and might need a change in long-term treatment.

Store your inhaler at room temperature and keep the cap on. Check the dose counter if your inhaler has one, and replace it when empty. Don’t freeze or expose it to very high heat. For nebulizer solutions, follow the storage instructions on the vial and use sterile saline if directed.

Buying albuterol online? Use licensed pharmacies that require a prescription. Avoid suspiciously cheap offers that skip prescriptions — fake or expired meds are risky. For more on choosing bronchodilators or comparing short- vs long-acting options, check related guides on this site like "Short-Acting vs. Long-Acting Bronchodilators."

Quick checklist: learn proper inhaler technique, carry your rescue inhaler, know warning signs that need urgent care, and keep an eye on how often you use it. If anything feels off, talk to your clinician — better safe than stuck without effective relief.