Albutamol Syrup: Complete Medicine Guide for Patients
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe chest pain or a feeling of a very fast or irregular heartbeat.
- Sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
- A severe asthma attack that does not improve with your usual rescue medicine.
- Fainting, confusion, or a seizure.
- Muscle weakness or cramps that could suggest low potassium.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or severe stomach pain.
- A widespread rash with blisters or peeling skin.
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is albutamol syrup used for?
This medicine is an oral syrup containing salbutamol and etofylline, used to relieve wheezing and breathlessness in conditions such as asthma and COPD. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways and helping clear mucus. It should be taken exactly as prescribed and is not a substitute for emergency treatment of a severe asthma attack.
- Generic Name: Salbutamol + Etofylline
- Manufacturer: Centaur Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 albutamol syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा सालबुटामोल और एटोफिलिन का मिश्रण है, जो सिरप के रूप में मुँह से ली जाती है। यह दमा, सीओपीडी और साँस की नली में ऐंठन जैसी समस्याओं में साँस लेने में आसानी देने के लिए दी जाती है। यह फेफड़ों की नलियों की मांसपेशियों को ढीला करके और बलगम को बाहर निकालने में मदद करके काम करती है। घरघराहट, सीने में जकड़न, खाँसी और साँस फूलने जैसे लक्षणों में राहत मिल सकती है। यह दवा डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना शुरू या बंद नहीं करनी चाहिए, और तेज दमे के दौरे में यह इनहेलर का विकल्प नहीं है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के कुछ सामान्य दुष्प्रभाव हो सकते हैं, जैसे हाथों में कंपन, दिल की धड़कन तेज होना, घबराहट, सिरदर्द, जी मिचलाना, पेट में असहजता और पसीना आना। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और शरीर के सामान्य होने पर कम हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी दिल की अनियमित धड़कन, सीने में दर्द, गंभीर एलर्जी, पोटैशियम की कमी या दौरे जैसी गंभीर समस्याएँ भी हो सकती हैं। अगर साँस लेने में तकलीफ, चेहरे या गले में सूजन, बेहोशी या दिल की तेज अनियमित धड़कन महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें और दवा के साथ दी गई मापने वाली चम्मच या कप का ही उपयोग करें। अपनी मर्जी से मात्रा न बढ़ाएँ, क्योंकि इससे दिल की धड़कन तेज होना, कंपन और पोटैशियम की कमी जैसी समस्याएँ हो सकती हैं। अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं के बारे में बताएँ, खासकर दिल की दवाओं, डाइयूरेटिक्स, स्टेरॉयड और अन्य दमा की दवाओं के बारे में। शराब न पिएँ और चाय, कॉफी तथा एनर्जी ड्रिंक कम करें। अगर आपको दिल, थायरॉइड, मधुमेह, मिर्गी या किडनी-लिवर की बीमारी है, तो डॉक्टर को जरूर बताएँ। तेज दमे के दौरे में इस सिरप के भरोसे न रहें और तुरंत इलाज लें।
💊 albutamol syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Bronchial asthma","description":"This medicine helps relieve wheezing, chest tightness, and breathlessness by relaxing the muscles around the airways, and it may be used as part of a maintenance plan in patients who need oral bronchodilator therapy.","evidence":"Well-established for salbutamol as a bronchodilator; the combination with etofylline is used in some regions but is not a first-line global standard."},{"condition":"Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)","description":"This medicine can help open the airways and ease breathlessness in some patients with COPD, although inhaled bronchodilators remain the preferred first-line treatment.","evidence":"Moderate for symptom relief; inhaled therapy is preferred in major guidelines."},{"condition":"Reversible airway obstruction with bronchospasm","description":"This medicine is used when a doctor has confirmed that the airway narrowing is at least partly reversible, and it aims to reduce wheezing and improve airflow.","evidence":"Well-established for the bronchodilator effect of salbutamol."},{"condition":"Acute exacerbation of asthma or COPD (adjunct)","description":"In some settings this syrup may be used as an add-on during a mild flare, but it is not a replacement for inhaled rescue therapy or emergency care in severe attacks.","evidence":"Limited; inhaled short-acting beta-2 agonists are the standard of care for acute symptoms."}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Bronchospasm in specific pediatric respiratory infections","description":"Occasionally prescribed by clinicians for wheezing associated with certain respiratory infections in children, but this is not a universal or guideline-endorsed use.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Adjunct in some cases of allergic cough with bronchospasm","description":"May be used when a doctor suspects a reversible bronchospastic component, but evidence for routine use is not strong.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Reversible obstructive airway disease such as bronchial asthma
Also treats: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Bronchospasm associated with respiratory infections, Exercise-induced bronchospasm
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Salbutamol + Etofylline |
| Brand Name | Albutamol Syrup |
| Manufacturer | Centaur Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | Bronchodilator (Beta-2 agonist + Xanthine derivative) |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store this medicine at room temperature, between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius, in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed and do not freeze the syrup. Keep it out of the reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life is usually 24 months from the date of manufacture, but you should always check the expiry date printed on the bottle. Do not use the medicine after the expiry date. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization does not specifically recommend this fixed-dose combination of salbutamol and etofylline syrup as a first-line treatment. Inhaled short-acting beta-2 agonists such as salbutamol are the preferred rescue treatment for asthma and COPD according to international guidance. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research and other Indian guidelines generally prefer inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids for the management of asthma and COPD. Oral combination bronchodilators may be used in selected patients when inhaled therapy is not feasible or not sufficient, as decided by a clinician. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works through two complementary bronchodilator mechanisms. Salbutamol selectively stimulates beta-2 adrenergic receptors on the smooth muscle cells of the bronchial tree, which raises cyclic AMP inside those cells and causes the muscle to relax, widening the airways. Etofylline, a xanthine derivative related to theophylline, inhibits phosphodiesterase enzymes and blocks adenosine receptors, which also raises cyclic AMP and reduces the release of mediators from mast cells; it additionally improves the clearance of mucus by supporting the action of the cilia. Together, these actions reduce bronchospasm, ease airflow, and help clear secretions, which is why the combination is used for reversible airway obstruction.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take albutamol syrup
Strength: This product is an oral syrup. The exact strength and concentration are not established from the available information.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The adult dose of this medicine is not fixed and must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, the severity of the airway disease, age, weight, kidney function, liver function, and other medicines being taken. In general, oral salbutamol and etofylline combinations are prescribed two to three times a day, but the exact amount and frequency depend on your doctor's assessment. Never change the dose or frequency on your own, and always use the measuring cup provided with the bottle to ensure accuracy. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. Children may need a different dose or a different formulation, and the dose must be calculated by a qualified clinician based on the child's age, weight, and clinical condition. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of salbutamol and etofylline, especially fast heartbeat, tremor, and dizziness. The dose should be individualized by a clinician, and heart rate, blood pressure, and potassium levels may need to be monitored more closely. |
| Renal Impairment | Patients with kidney disease may clear this medicine more slowly. The dose should be individualized by a qualified clinician, and kidney function should be checked before and during treatment. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Patients with liver disease may metabolize this medicine more slowly. The dose should be individualized by a qualified clinician, and liver function should be monitored during treatment. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is not established from the available information and must be determined by a qualified clinician based on the individual patient's condition and response to treatment. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of albutamol syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Propranolol | Major | |
| Digoxin | Major | |
| Furosemide | Major | |
| Theophylline | Major | |
| Phenelzine (MAOI) | Major | |
| Prednisolone | Moderate | |
| Ciprofloxacin | Moderate | |
| Rifampicin | Moderate | |
| Caffeine | Moderate | |
| Aluminium hydroxide antacid | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Non-selective beta-blockers such as propranolol
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and tricyclic antidepressants
- Other xanthine derivatives such as theophylline or aminophylline
- Digoxin
- Loop and thiazide diuretics
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Corticosteroids
- Caffeine
- Ciprofloxacin and other CYP1A2 inhibitors
- Rifampicin and other CYP1A2 inducers
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase dizziness, drowsiness, and the risk of falls, and it can also add to the strain on the heart caused by salbutamol and etofylline. If you drink alcohol regularly, discuss this with your doctor before starting or continuing this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known allergy or hypersensitivity to salbutamol, etofylline, or any other ingredient in this medicine","Severe heart rhythm disorders or uncontrolled cardiac disease","Active peptic ulcer disease","Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism","Acute severe asthma attack where inhaled rescue therapy is needed","Use in children below the age recommended by the prescribing doctor"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Do not exceed the prescribed dose, because higher doses increase the risk of heart rhythm problems, tremor, and low potassium.","Use with caution if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, epilepsy, or liver or kidney disease.","Tell your doctor if you are taking diuretics, digoxin, steroids, or other asthma medicines.","Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine while taking this medicine.","Do not use this syrup as a rescue medicine for a sudden severe asthma attack.","Keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can check your response and adjust treatment.","Stop the medicine and seek medical help if you develop a severe allergic reaction or irregular heartbeat."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Salbutamol is known to pass into breast milk in small amounts, and it is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding when used as prescribed. Information on the passage of etofylline into breast milk is limited. Breastfeeding mothers should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor before using this medicine.
💊 Overdose Management
An overdose of this medicine can cause severe tremor, restlessness, fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, high blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and dangerously low potassium levels. In serious cases, seizures and heart rhythm disturbances may occur. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or a poison control center immediately, or go to the nearest emergency department. Do not try to treat the overdose at home. Treatment is supportive and may include monitoring of heart rhythm, blood pressure, and potassium levels, along with other measures decided by the treating clinician.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, provided there is still a good amount of time before your next scheduled dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose, because this can increase the risk of side effects.
Additional Safety Advice
Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has advised, using the measuring cup or spoon provided with the bottle so that each dose is accurate. Do not increase the dose or take extra doses on your own, because higher doses of salbutamol and etofylline can increase the risk of heart rhythm problems, tremors, and low potassium levels. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially beta-blockers, diuretics, digoxin, corticosteroids, and other asthma medicines, because interactions can change how this medicine works or increase side effects. If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, epilepsy, or liver or kidney problems, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment or monitor you more closely. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can add to dizziness and increase the strain on your heart. Do not use this syrup to treat a sudden severe asthma attack without medical advice, and keep your rescue inhaler with you if one has been prescribed. Store the bottle tightly closed at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children, and check the expiry date before each use.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults are more likely to have heart disease, kidney disease, and other conditions that increase the risk of side effects from this medicine. They may need a lower dose, closer monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and potassium levels, and a review of all other medicines to avoid interactions.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning a pregnancy, talk to your doctor before starting or continuing this medicine. Salbutamol is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy when needed, but the safety of etofylline in pregnancy is less well established. Your doctor will weigh the benefits of controlling your asthma against any potential risks.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Tell your surgeon and anaesthetist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. Salbutamol and etofylline can affect heart rate and blood pressure, and they may interact with anaesthetic medicines. Your doctor may adjust the dose or monitor you more closely around the time of surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine, especially if you have heart conditions or are taking other medicines. Salbutamol can cause a dry mouth or tremor, which may affect dental treatment, and your dentist may need to take extra precautions if you have a heart rhythm problem.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Exercise can sometimes trigger bronchospasm. If your doctor has prescribed a rescue inhaler, use it as advised before exercise. Warm up slowly and avoid exercising in very cold, dry, or polluted air. Stop and rest if you feel breathless, wheezy, or dizzy, and seek medical help if symptoms do not settle.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause tremor, dizziness, or a fast heartbeat, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving or using heavy machines until you know how the medicine affects you. If your work involves dust, fumes, or heavy physical exertion, discuss with your doctor how to manage your condition safely.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine on your own. Your doctor will decide when it is safe to stop based on your symptoms, lung function, and response to treatment. If you experience serious side effects such as a severe allergic reaction, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain, stop the medicine and seek medical help immediately.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may lead to tolerance to the bronchodilator effect, an increased risk of heart rhythm problems, and low potassium levels, especially if the dose is high or if other medicines that lower potassium are used. Regular follow-up is important to check heart rate, blood pressure, potassium levels, and lung function. Your doctor may adjust the dose or add other treatments such as inhaled medicines if your symptoms are not well controlled.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Inhaled salbutamol works faster and with fewer systemic side effects than oral salbutamol, and it is the preferred rescue treatment for asthma and COPD.
Evidence: Well-establishedThese reduce airway inflammation and are a cornerstone of long-term asthma control when used as prescribed.
Evidence: Well-establishedThese can improve breathing efficiency and quality of life in people with chronic lung disease.
Evidence: ModerateReducing exposure to allergens, smoke, and pollution can lower the frequency of symptoms.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
People with chronic lung diseases such as asthma and COPD should discuss recommended vaccinations with their doctor, including influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, as respiratory infections can worsen their condition. This medicine does not directly interact with vaccines, but your doctor will advise on the best timing if you are unwell.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius.
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze the syrup or store it in extreme heat.
✅ DO
Keep the bottle tightly closed and in its original carton.
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer the syrup to another unlabelled container.
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom cabinet or near the stove.
✅ DO
Keep out of the reach of children.
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle.
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When travelling, carry this medicine in its original labelled bottle along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage so that it stays at room temperature and is not exposed to extreme heat or cold in checked baggage. If you are crossing time zones, ask your doctor whether you need to adjust the timing of your doses. Carry enough medicine for the whole trip plus a little extra in case of delays. Check the customs rules of your destination country for prescription medicines, and keep a doctor's letter explaining why you need this medicine.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Salbutamol in this syrup usually starts to relieve bronchospasm within 15 to 30 minutes after an oral dose, but the full benefit for symptom control may take a few days of regular use.
A: Yes, you can take this medicine with or after food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset and nausea.
A: If you remember soon after the missed dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
A: It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, because it can increase dizziness and put extra strain on your heart.
A: Children may be prescribed this medicine by a doctor, but the dose must be calculated carefully based on the child's age and weight. Do not give it to a child without medical advice.
A: Do not stop this medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor. Stopping too early can cause your symptoms to return or worsen.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for albutamol syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
brosal forte tabletAcron Pharmaceuticals ₹7.13 89.1% CHEAPER
-
asthacure plus syrupSwiss Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹14.06 78.5% CHEAPER
-
albutamol plus tabletCentaur Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹46.16 29.4% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure asthma permanently.
Fact: This medicine helps control symptoms but does not cure asthma. Asthma is a long-term condition that needs ongoing management. - Myth: More syrup means faster relief.
Fact: Taking more than the prescribed dose can cause serious heart and nerve side effects. Always follow your doctor's instructions. - Myth: This medicine can replace an inhaler during a severe attack.
Fact: Inhaled rescue medicines act faster and are preferred for severe attacks. This syrup is not a rescue treatment for emergencies. - Myth: It is safe to stop this medicine as soon as you feel better.
Fact: Stopping suddenly without medical advice can lead to worsening symptoms. Always ask your doctor before stopping.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Salbutamol oral syrup
- Etofylline oral syrup
- Salbutamol and etofylline oral syrup (generic)
Brand Alternatives
- Albutamol syrup