Bronchodilator (airway opener)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Salbutamol is a drug that relaxes and opens up the airways in your lungs, making it easier to breathe. It works by loosening the muscles around your air passages so air can flow freely.
Activates beta-2 adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle, increasing intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and promoting smooth muscle relaxation, bronchodilation, and improved airflow.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
For the inhaler: Take 1-2 puffs when you feel breathless or before exercise. You can repeat every 4-6 hours as needed, but do not exceed 8 puffs in 24 hours. For tablets: The usual adult dose is 2-4 mg taken 3-4 times daily. Swallow with water — food does not matter much. The inhaler works faster (within minutes) than tablets, so it is preferred for sudden breathing difficulty.
Salbutamol is mostly used only when you need it (when you feel breathless), so there is usually no missed dose. If your doctor told you to take it at regular times and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one — do not double up.
Buy only from reputable pharmacies — avoid roadside sellers, as fake inhalers are common in Nigeria and may not deliver the right dose. If you find yourself needing your inhaler more than 3-4 times a week, see a doctor — your asthma may need a different long-term treatment plan. Do not share your inhaler with others, even if they have similar breathing problems.
Avoid taking with drugs like propranolol or atenolol (blood pressure medicines called beta-blockers) as they can block salbutamol from working and may worsen breathing problems. Be cautious when using with other asthma drugs like theophylline, as the combination can increase the risk of fast heartbeat. If you are taking any heart or blood pressure medication, let your doctor know before using salbutamol.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Salbutamol with your other drugs?
Consult your doctor before using salbutamol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding — it may be used when the benefit to the mother outweighs the risk, but only under medical supervision.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it on window sills, inside cars, or near cooking areas. Keep the inhaler away from naked flames or high temperatures as the canister is pressurized. Always keep out of the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Salbutamol?
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