TempoLife › Medicine reference › salbutamol
Salbutamol
Quick relief of asthma symptoms such as wheeze, coughing and breathlessness by relaxing the airways.
General information only, not medical advice, and no doses. Read the leaflet in your pack and ask a pharmacist about your own situation, other medicines, pregnancy or any health condition.
At a glance
| Generic name | Salbutamol (known as albuterol in the US) |
|---|---|
| Type | Reliever inhaler (short-acting bronchodilator) |
| Commonly used for | Quick relief of asthma symptoms such as wheeze, coughing and breathlessness by relaxing the airways. |
| With food? | Not related to food — it is usually inhaled. |
| Alcohol | No direct interaction. |
| Timing | Used when symptoms appear, or before exercise if advised. |
Food and drink
Not related to food — it is usually inhaled. No direct interaction.
When to take it
Used when symptoms appear, or before exercise if advised.
Good to know
Needing a reliever often is a sign your asthma should be reviewed with a doctor or nurse. If anything about your own use is unclear, a pharmacist can advise for free.
Other common medicines
Paracetamol
Mild to moderate pain such as headache, toothache and muscle aches, and lowering a fever.
Ibuprofen
Pain, inflammation and fever — for example period pain, sprains, back pain and dental pain.
Aspirin
Pain and fever at normal doses; a low daily dose is used, only on medical advice, to reduce clotting risk.
Naproxen
Pain and inflammation, including muscle and joint pain and period pain; it is longer-acting than ibuprofen.
Omeprazole
Heartburn, acid reflux and stomach or gut ulcers.
Loratadine
Hay fever and other allergies, and itchy hives.
Source: General medicine information paraphrased from standard patient-information-leaflet guidance. Always read the leaflet in your pack. · checked 2026-09-04
Frequently asked questions
What is Salbutamol used for?
Quick relief of asthma symptoms such as wheeze, coughing and breathlessness by relaxing the airways.
Can I drink alcohol with Salbutamol?
No direct interaction.
Should I take Salbutamol with food?
Not related to food — it is usually inhaled.
See the pattern over time
TempoLife logs symptoms, food and sleep, so you can bring a clear picture to your pharmacist or doctor.