Side effects of an emergency salbutamol spray for asthma

The active ingredient salbutamol can have various side effects. For example, the following symptoms may occur when taking it

Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
Heart stumbling (palpitations)
Drop in blood pressure (hypotension)
Trembling of fingers and hands (tremor)
Muscle cramps
Swindle
Nausea
Headaches
Chest pain
Decrease of the potassium level in the blood (hypokalemia)
Increase in blood sugar level (hyperglycemia)
Hot flashes
Insomnia
Allergic reactions like skin rash
Swelling of the facial area
Shortness of breath

Can I use an emergency spray during pregnancy?

The salbutamol most frequently contained in emergency asthma sprays is the first choice for the acute treatment of an asthma attack during pregnancy, so it can be used without restriction. Of course, it should only be used when necessary. Towards the end of pregnancy it should be noted that higher doses of salbutamol can have a contraction-inhibiting effect.

Can I take the emergency spray on the plane?

Emergency sprays with the ingredient salbutamol are offered by different suppliers at different prices. The cheapest spray can be obtained for about 14 euros. With asthmatics the medicine costs are taken over however by the health insurance company, it result then apart from the usual prescription fees no costs.

How the spray works

Active ingredients such as salbutamol from the group of beta-2 sympathomimetics have a stimulating or activating effect on beta-2 receptors. Such receptors are only found in certain organs of the body. They are particularly present in the smooth muscles of the bronchi, which form part of the respiratory tract, the muscles of the uterus and the vascular muscles.

Since asthma sprays are inhaled, the active ingredients primarily exert their effect in the area of the smooth muscles of the bronchi. Here they lead to a slackening of the musculature so that it comes to an expansion of the respiratory tract. Particularly in the case of an acute asthma attack, in which there is an acute narrowing of the airways, the spray quickly leads to a significantly better ventilation of the lungs.