How and when to use salbutamol inhalers

The normal way to use your salbutamol inhaler (both adults and children) is 1 or 2 puffs when you need it. You can use it up to a maximum of 4 times in 24 hours, regardless of whether you have 1 puff or 2 puffs at a time.

Salbutamol is sometimes used to prevent breathing symptoms before they start. This could be before a trigger such as exercise or exposure to pets. To prevent symptoms, the normal dose is still 1 or 2 puffs at a time.

If you need to use your inhaler more than 4 times in 24 hours:

• it may mean that your condition is getting worse and that you need different treatment
• you're more likely to get side effects such as an increased heart rate, feeling shaky or nervous, and headaches

You need to use your salbutamol inhaler:

• more than 4 times in 24 hours
• 3 or more days each week
• in the middle of the night at least once a week

In a sudden asthma attack you can use your inhaler more and take up to 10 puffs. Wait 30 to 60 seconds between each puff and always shake the inhaler each time.

For treating severe asthma attacks, salbutamol can be given through a nebuliser. A nebuliser is a machine that delivers the medicine as a mist inhaled through a face mask. This will probably be given to you by your doctor.