CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Fergus Allerton,
Medication: Salbutamol (Albuterol)
Your cat has been prescribed salbutamol for the treatment of bronchitis or asthma.
ℹ️Key points: • There are no licensed veterinary products containing salbutamol. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human drug to your pet which contains Salbutamol. Your veterinarian will explain off-license prescribing to you. • Salbutamol is known as albuterol in some localities. • Dosage: as directed by your veterinary surgeon.
ℹ️This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. ⚠️Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Salbutamol (salb-yoo-tah-mol).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing salbutamol.
Class of medication
- Bronchodilator.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
- Do not store above 30°C.
Why has my cat been prescribed salbutamol?
Your veterinarian has prescribed salbutamol for the treatment of chronic bronchitis or asthma or another disease causing spasm of the airways. Salbutamol dilates and relieves spasm of the airways and so helps your pet to breathe.
How is the medication given?
Salbutamol is usually inhaled via a metered dose inhaler, used with an aerosol drug delivery system, such as the AEROKAT system. Inhalers: 1-2 puffs as directed by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will teach you how to administer the inhalers. Oral versions (if available): tablets or liquid usually administered by mouth two to three times daily.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
An advantage of using the inhaled version of this drug, instead of tablets, is that there are not usually any long-term side-effects from this medication. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you feel your pet has any side-effects from this medication. Use with care in pregnant queens and in animals with heart disease. Salbutamol may interact with the following medications: phenylephrine, propranolol, tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors and digoxin. Overdose with salbutamol can result in the following signs: fast heart rate, fast breathing, depression, abnormal heart rhythm, hyperactivity, tremors, drooling and vomiting. If your pet accidentally ingests a canister of salbutamol then contact your veterinarian immediately, as they will require immediate veterinary attention.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Salbutamol should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Some pets may require long-term, or even life-long therapy with salbutamol.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused salbutamol safely. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not give to other pets. Do not puncture the canisters, even when empty.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. If you accidentally give an extra dose, contact your veterinarian for advice, but an extra puff is unlikely to cause any problems. Large overdoses of salbutamol can be life-threatening, so always call your veterinarian if you are worried.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Salbutamol should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center immediately.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on salbutamol?
Your cat may need regular checkups so that your veterinarian can continue to prescribe this drug safely and within prescribing regulations.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on salbutamol can be found on the package insert.Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing salbutamol available in the UK and Europe.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing salbutamol available in the US.