Salbutamol is a fast-acting reliever medicine that helps open narrowed airways. In first aid, it is often used when someone has worsening asthma symptoms or may be having an Asthma Attack.
What is salbutamol?
Salbutamol is a medicine that helps relax the muscles around the airways. This makes it easier for air to move in and out of the lungs.
It is commonly given through an Asthma Inhaler or puffer. In Australia, people often know it through common reliever puffers such as Ventolin or Asmol.
What does salbutamol do?
Salbutamol can help:
- ease wheezing
- reduce chest tightness
- improve shortness of breath
- make breathing easier during flare-ups
It works quickly, but it does not cure asthma itself.
Is salbutamol the same as an inhaler?
No. Salbutamol is the medicine. An Asthma Inhaler is the device that delivers the medicine.
A Spacer may also be used with some puffers to help more of the medicine reach the lungs.
How is salbutamol used in first aid?
If the person has asthma symptoms or may be having an asthma attack:
- Sit them upright.
- Stay calm and reassure them.
- Help them use their own reliever inhaler if they have one.
- Use a spacer if appropriate and available.
- Follow their asthma action plan if available.
- Watch closely for improvement or worsening.
For the main practical response page, see Asthma Attack.
When should you call 000?
Call 000 in Australia if:
- breathing is getting harder
- the person cannot speak properly
- the medicine is not helping enough
- the person looks exhausted, floppy, or confused
- lips are turning blue
- the person becomes Unresponsive
If the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, start CPR.
Is salbutamol a bronchodilator?
Yes. Salbutamol is a short-acting Bronchodilator. That means it is one of the medicines that open the airways.
Quick answer
Salbutamol is a fast-acting reliever medicine often delivered by asthma puffer. In first aid, it is commonly used during worsening asthma symptoms or an asthma attack to help open the airways and make breathing easier.
Sources reviewed
- National Asthma Council Australia: asthma management
- National Asthma Council Australia: first aid for asthma
Reviewed against current Australian asthma, first aid and emergency guidance by the First Aid Glossary Editorial Team. This article is general information and does not replace a person’s written asthma action plan, emergency-operator directions, professional medical advice or hands-on first aid training.
