Salbutamol / Albuterol | Drug Overview & Clinical Reference
Salbutamol / Albuterol
Clinical safety rating: safe
Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) essential for acute asthma management in pregnancy. Inhaled salbutamol is first-line bronchodilator for asthma across all trimesters — untreated asthma carries far greater risk to the fetus (hypoxia, preterm birth, IUGR) than the drug itself. Also used as a short-term IV tocolytic for preterm labor, though nifedipine has largely replaced it for this indication. No established teratogenicity with inhaled use.
How it works
Mechanism information is still being processed. Check the DailyMed link in the sidebar for the official prescribing information.
Dosing & administration
Dosing varies by indication and patient profile. Always follow your institution's current prescribing guidelines.
Renal impairment
Consult protocols for adjustment.
Liver impairment
Consult protocols for adjustment.
Use during pregnancy
1st trimester
Safe. First-line bronchodilator for asthma. Use as needed.
2nd trimester
Safe.
3rd trimester
Safe. Continue for asthma. If used IV as tocolytic, monitor for maternal tachycardia and hyperglycemia.
Clinical note
Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) essential for acute asthma management in pregnancy. Inhaled salbutamol is first-line bronchodilator for asthma across all trimesters — untreated asthma carries far greater risk to the fetus (hypoxia, preterm birth, IUGR) than the drug itself. Also used as a short-term IV tocolytic for preterm labor, though nifedipine has largely replaced it for this indication. No established teratogenicity with inhaled use.
Breastfeeding
Safe. Inhaled salbutamol results in minimal systemic levels; compatible with breastfeeding.
Warnings & precautions
When not to use it
Avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to this drug or any of its components.
