Salbutamol

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Salbutamol, known in the United States as albuterol, is a drug which acts by stimulating beta-adrenergic receptors. Its principal action is relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, resulting in widening of the airway (bronchodilatation).

It is usually given by the inhaled route, but can also be given orally or intravenously. It is used to relieve symptoms in asthma and other lung conditions. Adverse effects, particularly in overdose, are tachycardia and tremor.

Other uses include tocolysis (reduction of premature labor by inhibiting contractions) and emergency treatment of hyperkalemia. Its use for tocolysis has been superseded by atosiban and the older ritodrine.

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