The Challenge with Salbutamol: Benefit as Treatment Modality and Detrimental Effects of Overuse

Abstract

The introduction of inhaled short-acting β 2 -agonists revolutionized the short-term management of asthma, as it provides quick relief of bronchoconstriction. Current treatment guidelines focusing on prevention of asthma exacerbations rather than relief of acute symptoms of asthma are in place, many patients are self-medicating with short-acting β 2 -agonists, rather than adherence to inhaled corticosteroids with long-acting β 2 -agonists as controllers. Current treatment guidelines focusses on prevention of asthma exacerbations with the use of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β 2 -agonist, rather than only using a reliever in acute symptoms. Frequent use of reliever medications are recognized as a marker of poor asthma control, and leads to increased hospitalization, morbidity and mortality. SABA’s on but the overuse (more than 12 metered dose inhalers annually) is associated with an risk of severe exacerbations, including death, as well as the down-regulation of β 2 -receptors. an over-the-counter product can further way the patient is using the reliever, and provide education regarding the correct use of medication, including the correct technique of using the inhaler. The aim of this review is to highlight the problem of salbutamol overuse, and to set out measures to curb the problem.