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Albuterol Sulfate
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC DirectoryForms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Adrenergic beta2-Agonists [MoA] | MoA | All 37 members |
| beta2-Adrenergic Agonist [EPC] | EPC | All 37 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 209954-001 | ALBUTEROL SULFATE | AEROSOL, METERED | ALBUTEROL SULFATE | Prescription | AB2 |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 4 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | January 14, 2021 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | August 24, 2020 | Standard |
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260424). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingFEV 1 as Mean Percent Change from Test-Day Pre-Dose in a 6-Week Clinical Trial Day 1 Day 1 Image
Day 43 Day 43 Image
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Albuterol Sulfate HFA is a beta 2 -adrenergic agonist indicated for: • Treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adult and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older with reversible obstructive airway disease. ( 1.1 ) • Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm in adult and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Bronchospasm Albuterol Sulfate HFA Inhalation Aerosol is indicated for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adult and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older with reversible obstructive airway disease. 1.2 Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm Albuterol Sulfate HFA is indicated for the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm in adult and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older.
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION For oral inhalation only • Treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adults and children 4 years of age and older: 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours. In some patients, one inhalation every 4 hours may be sufficient. ( 2.1 ) • Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm in adults and children 4 years of age and older: 2 inhalations 15 to 30 minutes before exercise. ( 2.2 ) • Priming information: Prime albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol before using for the first time, or when the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks. To prime albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol, release 3 sprays into the air away from the face. Shake well before each spray. ( 2.3 ) • Cleaning information: At least once a week, wash the actuator with warm water, shake off excess, and air dry thoroughly. ( 2.3 ) • Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol inhaler should be discarded when the dose indicator displays 0 or after the expiration date on the product, whichever comes first. ( 2.3 ) 2.1 Bronchospasm For treatment of acute episodes of bronchospasm or prevention of symptoms associated with bronchospasm, the usual dosage for adults and children 4 years and older is two inhalations repeated every 4 to 6 hours. More frequent administration or a larger number of inhalations is not recommended. In some patients, one inhalation every 4 hours may be sufficient. 2.2 Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm The usual dosage for adults and children 4 years of age or older is two inhalations 15 to 30 minutes before exercise. 2.3 Administration Information Administer albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol by oral inhalation only. Shake well before each spray. To maintain proper use of this product and to prevent medication build-up and blockage, it is important to follow the cleaning directions carefully.Administer albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol by oral inhalation only. Shake well before each spray. To maintain proper use of this product and to prevent medication build-up and blockage, it is important to follow the cleaning directions carefully. Priming Prime the inhaler before using for the first time and in cases where the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks by releasing three sprays into the air, away from the face.Prime the inhaler before using for the first time and in cases where the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks by releasing three sprays into the air, away from the face. Cleaning As with all HFA-containing albuterol inhalers, to maintain proper use of this product and to prevent medication build-up and blockage, it is important to clean the plastic mouthpiece regularly. The inhaler may cease to deliver medication if the plastic actuator mouthpiece is not properly cleaned and dried. To clean: Wash the plastic mouthpiece with warm running water for 30 seconds, shake off excess water, and air dry thoroughly at least once a week If the mouthpiece becomes blocked, washing the mouthpiece will remove the blockage. If it is necessary to use the inhaler before it is completely dry, shake off excess water, replace canister, spray twice into the air away from face, and take the prescribed dose. After such use, the mouthpiece should be rewashed and allowed to air dry thoroughly . As with all HFA-containing albuterol inhalers, to maintain proper use of this product and to prevent medication build-up and blockage, it is important to clean the plastic mouthpiece regularly. The inhaler may cease to deliver medication if the plastic actuator mouthpiece is not properly cleaned and dried. To clean: Wash the plastic mouthpiece with warm running water for 30 seconds, shake off excess water, and air dry thoroughly at least once a week . If the patient has more than one albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol inhaler, the patient should wash each one separately to prevent attaching the wrong canister to the wrong plastic actuator. In this way, the patient can be sure to always know the correct number of remaining doses. Never a …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol is an inhalation aerosol. Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol is supplied as an 8.5 g/200 actuations pressurized aluminum canister with a blue plastic actuator with a dose indicator and green dust cap each in boxes of one. Each actuation delivers 120 mcg of albuterol sulfate from the canister valve and 108 mcg of albuterol sulfate from the actuator mouthpiece (equivalent to 90 mcg of albuterol base). Inhalation Aerosol: Each actuation delivers 108 mcg of albuterol sulfate from the actuator mouthpiece (equivalent to 90 mcg of albuterol base). Supplied in 8.5-g canister containing 200 actuations. ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Albuterol Sulfate HFA Inhalation Aerosol is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to albuterol and any other Albuterol Sulfate HFA Inhalation Aerosol components. Rare cases of hypersensitivity reactions, including urticaria, angioedema, and rash have been reported after the use of albuterol sulfate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] . Hypersensitivity to albuterol and any other Albuterol Sulfate HFA Inhalation Aerosol Components. ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Life-threatening paradoxical bronchospasm may occur. Discontinue albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol immediately and treat with alternative therapy. ( 5.1 ) • Need for more doses of albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol than usual may be a sign of deterioration of asthma and requires reevaluation of treatment. ( 5.2 ) • Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol is not a substitute for corticosteroids. ( 5.3 ) • Cardiovascular effects may occur. Use with caution in patients sensitive to sympathomimetic drugs and patients with cardiovascular or convulsive disorders. ( 5.4 , 5.7 ) • Excessive use may be fatal. Do not exceed recommended dose. ( 5.5 ) • Immediate hypersensitivity reactions may occur. Discontinue albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol immediately. ( 5.6 ) • Hypokalemia and changes in blood glucose may occur. ( 5.7 , 5.8 ) 5.1 Paradoxical Bronchospasm Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol can produce paradoxical bronchospasm that may be life threatening. If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs, albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol should be discontinued immediately and alternative therapy instituted. It should be recognized that paradoxical bronchospasm, when associated with inhaled formulations, frequently occurs with the first use of a new canister. 5.2 Deterioration of Asthma Asthma may deteriorate acutely over a period of hours or chronically over several days or longer. If the patient needs more doses of albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol than usual, this may be a marker of destabilization of asthma and requires re-evaluation of the patient and treatment regimen, giving special consideration to the possible need for anti-inflammatory treatment, e.g., corticosteroids. 5.3 Use of Anti-inflammatory Agents The use of beta-adrenergic-agonist bronchodilators alone may not be adequate to control asthma in many patients. Early consideration should be given to adding anti-inflammatory agents, e.g., corticosteroids, to the therapeutic regimen. 5.4 Cardiovascular Effects Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol, like other beta-adrenergic agonists, can produce clinically significant cardiovascular effects in some patients as measured by pulse rate, blood pressure, and/or symptoms. Although such effects are uncommon after administration of albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol at recommended doses, if they occur, the drug may need to be discontinued. In addition, beta-agonists have been reported to produce ECG changes, such as flattening of the T wave, prolongation of the QTc interval, and ST segment depression. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Therefore, albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol, like all sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension. 5.5 Do Not Exceed Recommended Dose Fatalities have been reported in association with excessive use of inhaled sympathomimetic drugs in patients with asthma. The exact cause of death is unknown, but cardiac arrest following an unexpected development of a severe acute asthmatic crisis and subsequent hypoxia is suspected. 5.6 Immediate Hypersensitivity Reactions Immediate hypersensitivity reactions may occur after administration of albuterol sulfate, as demonstrated by rare cases of urticaria, angioedema, rash, bronchospasm, anaphylaxis, and oropharyngeal edema. The potential for hypersensitivity must be considered in the clinical evaluation of patients who experience immediate hypersensitivity reactions while receiving albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol. 5.7 Coexisting Conditions Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol, like all sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension; in patients with convulsive disorders, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes mellitus; and in patients who are unusually responsive to sympathomi …
Warnings
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNINGS 1. Paradoxical Bronchospasm: Inhaled albuterol sulfate can produce paradoxical bronchospasm that may be life threatening. If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs, Albuterol Sulfate Inhalation Aerosol should be discontinued immediately and alternative therapy instituted. It should be recognized that paradoxical bronchospasm, when associated with inhaled formulations, frequently occurs with the first use of a new canister. 2. Deterioration of Asthma: Asthma may deteriorate acutely over a period of hours or chronically over several days or longer. If the patient needs more doses of Albuterol Sulfate Inhalation Aerosol than usual, this may be a marker of destabilization of asthma and requires re-evaluation of the patient and treatment regimen, giving special consideration to the possible need for anti-inflammatory treatment, e.g., corticosteroids. 3. Use of Anti-inflammatory Agents: The use of beta-adrenergic-agonist bronchodilators alone may not be adequate to control asthma in many patients. Early consideration should be given to adding anti-inflammatory agents, e.g., corticosteroids, to the therapeutic regimen. Cardiovascular Effects: Albuterol Sulfate Inhalation Aerosol, like other beta-adrenergic agonists, can produce clinically significant cardiovascular effects in some patients as measured by pulse rate, blood pressure, and/or symptoms. Although such effects are uncommon after administration of Albuterol Sulfate Inhalation Aerosol at recommended doses, if they occur, the drug may need to be discontinued. In addition, beta-agonists have been reported to produce ECG changes, such as flattening of the T wave, prolongation of the QTc interval, and ST segment depression. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Therefore, Albuterol Sulfate Inhalation Aerosol, like all sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension. 4. Do Not Exceed Recommended Dose: Fatalities have been reported in association with excessive use of inhaled sympathomimetic drugs in patients with asthma. The exact cause of death is unknown, but cardiac arrest following an unexpected development of a severe acute asthmatic crisis and subsequent hypoxia is suspected. 5. Immediate Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immediate hypersensitivity reactions may occur after administration of albuterol sulfate, as demonstrated by rare cases of urticaria, angioedema, rash, bronchospasm, anaphylaxis, and oropharyngeal edema.
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: • Paradoxical bronchospasm [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Cardiovascular effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] • Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] • Hypokalemia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥3%) are throat irritation, viral respiratory infections, upper respiratory inflammation, cough, and musculoskeletal pain. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Prasco Laboratories at 1-866-525-0688 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The safety data described below reflects exposure to albuterol sulfate HFA in 248 subjects treated with albuterol sulfate HFA in 3 placebo-controlled clinical trials of 2 to 12 weeks’ duration. The data from adults and adolescents is based upon 2 clinical trials in which 202 subjects with asthma aged 12 years and older were treated with albuterol sulfate HFA 2 inhalations 4 times daily for 12 weeks’ duration. The adult/adolescent population was 92 female, 110 male and 163 white, 19 black, 18 Hispanic, 2 other. The data from pediatric subjects are based upon 1 clinical trial in which 46 subjects with asthma aged 4 to 11 years were treated with albuterol sulfate HFA 2 inhalations 4 times daily for 2 weeks’ duration. The population was 21 female, 25 male and 25 white, 17 black, 3 Hispanic, 1 other. Adult and Adolescent Subjects Aged 12 Years and Older The two 12-week, randomized, double-blind trials in 610 adult and adolescent subjects with asthma that compared albuterol sulfate HFA, a CFC 11/12-propelled albuterol inhaler, and an HFA-134a placebo inhaler. Overall, the incidence and nature of the adverse reactions reported for albuterol sulfate HFA and a CFC 11/12‐propelled albuterol inhaler were comparable. Table 1 lists the incidence of all adverse reactions (whether considered by the investigator to be related or unrelated to drug) from these trials that occurred at a rate of ≥3% in the group treated with albuterol sulfate HFA and more frequently in the group treated with albuterol sulfate HFA than in the HFA-134a placebo inhaler group. Table 1. Adverse Reactions with Albuterol Sulfate HFA with ≥3% Incidence and More Common than Placebo in Adult and Adolescent Subjects Adverse Reaction Percent of Subjects Albuterol Sulfate HFA (n = 202) % CFC 11/12-Propelled Albuterol Inhaler (n = 207) % Placebo HFA-134a (n = 201) % Ear, nose, and throat Throat irritation 10 6 7 Upper respiratory inflammation 5 5 2 Lower respiratory Viral respiratory infections 7 4 4 Cough 5 2 2 Musculoskeletal Musculoskeletal pain 5 5 4 Adverse reactions reported by <3% of the adult and adolescent subjects receiving albuterol sulfate HFA and by a greater proportion of subjects receiving albuterol sulfate HFA than receiving HFA-134a placebo inhaler and that have the potential to be related to albuterol sulfate HFA include diarrhea, laryngitis, oropharyngeal edema, cough, lung disorders, tachycardia, and extrasystoles. Palpitations and dizziness have also been observed with albuterol sulfate HFA. Pediatric Subjects Aged 4 to 11 Years Results from the 2-week clinical trial in pediatric subjects with asthma aged 4 to 11 years showed that this pediatric population had an adverse reaction profile similar to that of the adult and adolescent populations. Three trials have been conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of albuterol sulfate HFA in subjects between birth and 4 years of age. The results of these trials did not establish the efficacy of albuterol sulfate HFA in this age group …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Other short-acting sympathomimetic aerosol bronchodilators should not be used concomitantly with albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol. If additional adrenergic drugs are to be administered by any route, they should be used with caution to avoid deleterious cardiovascular effects. • Other short-acting sympathomimetic aerosol bronchodilators and adrenergic drugs: May potentiate effect. ( 7 ) • Beta-blockers: May decrease effectiveness of Albuterol Sulfate Inhalation Aerosol and produce severe bronchospasm. Patients with asthma should not normally be treated with beta-blockers. ( 7.1 ) • Diuretics, or non-potassium sparing diuretics: May potentiate hypokalemia or ECG changes. Consider monitoring potassium levels. ( 7.2 ) • Digoxin: May decrease serum digoxin levels. Consider monitoring digoxin levels. ( 7.3 ) • Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants: May potentiate effect of albuterol on the cardiovascular system. Consider alternative therapy in patients taking MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants. ( 7.4 ) 7.1 Beta-Blockers Beta-adrenergic-receptor blocking agents not only block the pulmonary effect of beta-agonists, such as albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol, but may produce severe bronchospasm in asthmatic patients. Therefore, patients with asthma should not normally be treated with beta-blockers. However, under certain circumstances, e.g., as prophylaxis after myocardial infarction, there may be no acceptable alternatives to the use of beta-adrenergic-blocking agents in patients with asthma. In this setting, consider cardioselective beta-blockers, although they should be administered with caution. 7.2 Diuretics The ECG changes and/or hypokalemia which may result from the administration of non-potassium sparing diuretics (such as loop or thiazide diuretics) can be acutely worsened by beta-agonists, especially when the recommended dose of the beta-agonist is exceeded. Although the clinical significance of these effects is not known, caution is advised in the coadministration of beta-agonists with non-potassium sparing diuretics. Consider monitoring potassium levels. 7.3 Digoxin Mean decreases of 16% and 22% in serum digoxin levels were demonstrated after single dose intravenous and oral administration of albuterol, respectively, to normal volunteers who had received digoxin for 10 days. The clinical significance of these findings for patients with obstructive airway disease who are receiving albuterol and digoxin on a chronic basis is unclear. Nevertheless, it would be prudent to carefully evaluate the serum digoxin levels in patients who are currently receiving digoxin and albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol. 7.4 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors or Tricyclic Antidepressants Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol should be administered with extreme caution to patients being treated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, or within 2 weeks of discontinuation of such agents, because the action of albuterol on the cardiovascular system may be potentiated. Consider alternative therapy in patients taking MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants.
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to asthma medications during pregnancy. For more information, contact the MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies conducted by the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists at 1‐877-311-8972 or visit https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/asthma/. Risk Summary There are no randomized clinical studies of use of albuterol sulfate during pregnancy. Available data from epidemiological studies and postmarketing case reports of pregnancy outcomes following inhaled albuterol use do not consistently demonstrate a risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. There are, however, clinical considerations in pregnant women with asthma. (See Clinical Considerations.) Administration of albuterol sulfate HFA to mice and rabbits during the period of organogenesis revealed evidence of adverse developmental outcomes (cleft palate in mice, delayed ossification in rabbits) at less than the maximum recommended human daily inhaled dose (MRHDID). (See Data.) The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population(s) is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryofetal Risk: In women with poorly or moderately controlled asthma, there is an increased risk of several perinatal adverse outcomes such as preeclampsia in the mother and prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age in the neonate. Pregnant women with asthma should be closely monitored and medication adjusted as necessary to maintain optimal asthma control. Labor or Delivery: Because of the potential for beta-agonist interference with uterine contractility, use of Albuterol Sulfate HFA during labor should be restricted to those patients in whom the benefits clearly outweigh the risk. Albuterol sulfate HFA has not been approved for the management of pre-term labor. Serious adverse reactions, including pulmonary edema, have been reported during or following treatment of premature labor with beta 2 -agonists, including albuterol. Data Human Data: While available studies cannot definitively establish the absence of risk, published data from epidemiological studies and case reports have not consistently demonstrated an association with use of albuterol sulfate HFA during pregnancy and major birth defects, specific birth defects, or miscarriage. The available studies have methodologic limitations, including inconsistent comparator groups, definitions of outcomes, and assessment of disease impact. Animal Data: In a study in pregnant mice, subcutaneously administered albuterol sulfate produced cleft palate formation in 5 of 111 (4.5%) fetuses at an exposure less than the MRHDID for adults (on a mg/m 2 basis at a maternal dose of 0.25 mg/kg) and in 10 of 108 (9.3%) fetuses at approximately 9 times the MRHDID (on a mg/m 2 basis at a maternal dose of 2.5 mg/kg). Cleft palate also occurred in 22 of 72 (30.5%) fetuses from females treated subcutaneously with isoproterenol, another beta 2 -agonist. In a study in pregnant rabbits, orally administered albuterol sulfate produced cranioschisis in 7 of 19 fetuses (37%) at approximately 750 times the MRHDID (on a mg/m 2 basis at a maternal dose of 50 mg/kg). In a study in pregnant rabbits, an albuterol/HFA-134a formulation administered by inhalation produced enlargement of the frontal portion of the fetal fontanelles at approximately one third of the MRHDID on a mg/m 2 basis. A study in which pregnant rats were dosed with radiolabeled albuterol sulfate demonstrated that drug-related material is transferred from the maternal circulation to the fetus. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no available data on the presence of albuterol or the components of A …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug LabelingMechanism of Action In vitro studies and in vivo pharmacologic studies have demonstrated that albuterol has a preferential effect on beta 2 -adrenergic receptors compared with isoproterenol. While it is recognized that beta 2 -adrenergic receptors are the predominant receptors on bronchial smooth muscle, data indicate that there is a population of beta 2 -receptors in the human heart existing in a concentration between 10% and 50% of cardiac beta-adrenergic receptors. The precise function of these receptors has not been established. (See WARNINGS, Cardiovascular Effects section.) Activation of beta 2 -adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle leads to the activation of adenylcyclase and to an increase in the intracellular concentration of cyclic-3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP). This increase of cyclic AMP leads to the activation of protein kinase A, which inhibits the phosphorylation of myosin and lowers intracellular ionic calcium concentrations, resulting in relaxation. Albuterol relaxes the smooth muscles of all airways, from the trachea to the terminal bronchioles. Albuterol acts as a functional antagonist to relax the airway irrespective of the spasmogen involved, thus protecting against all bronchoconstrictor challenges. Increased cyclic AMP concentrations are also associated with the inhibition of release of mediators from mast cells in the airway. Albuterol has been shown in most clinical trials to have more effect on the respiratory tract, in the form of bronchial smooth muscle relaxation, than isoproterenol at comparable doses while producing fewer cardiovascular effects. Controlled clinical studies and other clinical experience have shown that inhaled albuterol, like other beta-adrenergic agonist drugs, can produce a significant cardiovascular effect in some patients, as measured by pulse rate, blood pressure, symptoms, and/or electrocardiographic changes. Preclinical Intravenous studies in rats with albuterol sulfate have demonstrated that albuterol crosses the blood-brain barrier and reaches brain concentrations amounting to approximately 5% of the plasma concentrations. In structures outside the blood-brain barrier (pineal and pituitary glands), albuterol concentrations were found to be 100 times those in the whole brain. Studies in laboratory animals (minipigs, rodents, and dogs) have demonstrated the occurrence of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death (with histologic evidence of myocardial necrosis) when beta 2 -agonist and methylxanthines were administered concurrently. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Propellant HFA-134a is devoid of pharmacological activity except at very high doses in animals (380-1300 times the maximum human exposure based on comparisons of AUC values), primarily producing ataxia, tremors, dyspnea, or salivation. These are similar to effects produced by the structurally related chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which have been used extensively in metered dose inhalers. In animals and humans, propellant HFA-134a was found to be rapidly absorbed and rapidly eliminated, with an elimination half-life of 3 to 27 minutes in animals and 5 to 7 minutes in humans. Time to maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) and mean residence time are both extremely short, leading to a transient appearance of HFA-134a in the blood with no evidence of accumulation.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION The active component of Albuterol Sulfate HFA is albuterol sulfate, USP, the racemic form of albuterol and a relatively selective beta 2 -adrenergic bronchodilator. Albuterol sulfate has the chemical name α 1 -[( tert -butylamino)methyl]-4-hydroxy- m -xylene-α, α′-diol sulfate (2:1)(salt) and the following chemical structure: Albuterol sulfate is a white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 576.7, and the empirical formula is (C 13 H 21 NO 3 ) 2 •H 2 SO 4 . It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. The World Health Organization recommended name for albuterol base is salbutamol. Albuterol Sulfate HFA is a blue plastic inhaler with a blue cap containing a pressurized metered-dose aerosol canister fitted with a counter. Each canister contains a microcrystalline suspension of albuterol sulfate in propellant HFA‐134a (1,1,1,2‐tetrafluoroethane). It contains no other excipients. After priming, each actuation of the inhaler delivers 120 mcg of albuterol sulfate, USP in 75 mg of suspension from the valve and 108 mcg of albuterol sulfate, USP from the mouthpiece (equivalent to 90 mcg of albuterol base from the mouthpiece). Prime Albuterol Sulfate HFA before using for the first time, when the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks, or when the inhaler has been dropped. To prime Albuterol Sulfate HFA, release 4 sprays into the air away from the face, shaking well before each spray. Avoid spraying in eyes. Albuterol sulfate chemical structure
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE The expected symptoms with overdosage are those of excessive beta-adrenergic stimulation and/or occurrence or exaggeration of any of the symptoms listed under ADVERSE REACTIONS, e.g., seizures, angina, hypertension or hypotension, tachycardia with rates up to 200 beats per minute, arrhythmias, nervousness, headache, tremor, dry mouth, palpitation, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, malaise, and insomnia. Hypokalemia may also occur. As with all sympathomimetic medications, cardiac arrest and even death may be associated with abuse of Albuterol Sulfate HFA Inhalation Aerosol. Treatment consists of discontinuation of Albuterol Sulfate HFA Inhalation Aerosol together with appropriate symptomatic therapy. The judicious use of a cardioselective beta-receptor blocker may be considered, bearing in mind that such medication can produce bronchospasm. There is insufficient evidence to determine if dialysis is beneficial for overdosage of Albuterol Sulfate HFA Inhalation Aerosol. The oral median lethal dose of albuterol sulfate in mice is greater than 2,000 mg/kg (approximately 6,800 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for adults on a mg/m 2 basis and approximately 3,200 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for children on a mg/m 2 basis). In mature rats, the subcutaneous median lethal dose of albuterol sulfate is approximately 450 mg/kg (approximately 3,000 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for adults on a mg/m 2 basis and approximately 1,400 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for children on a mg/m 2 basis). In young rats, the subcutaneous median lethal dose is approximately 2,000 mg/kg (approximately 14,000 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for adults on a mg/m 2 basis and approximately 6,400 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for children on a mg/m 2 basis). The inhalation median lethal dose has not been determined in animals.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol is supplied as a pressurized aluminum canister with a blue plastic actuator with a dose indicator and green dust cap each in boxes of one. Each canister contains 8.5 g of the formulation and provides 200 actuations (NDC 68180-963-01). Each actuation delivers 120 mcg of albuterol sulfate from the canister valve and 108 mcg of albuterol sulfate from the actuator mouthpiece (equivalent to 90 mcg of albuterol base). NDC: 70518-3541-00 PACKAGING: 1 in 1 CARTON, 200 in 1 CANISTER TYPE 0 SHAKE WELL BEFORE USE. Store between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Contents under pressure. Do not puncture or incinerate. Protect from freezing temperatures and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Exposure to temperatures above 120oF may cause bursting. For best results, canister should be at room temperature before use. Avoid spraying in eyes. Keep out of reach of children. See FDA-Approved Patient Labeling (17.9) for priming and cleaning instructions. The blue actuator supplied with albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol should not be used with the canister from any other inhalation aerosol products. The albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol canister should not be used with the actuator from any other inhalation aerosol products. Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol has a dose indicator attached to the actuator. Patients should never try to alter the numbers for the dose indicator or tamper with the dose indicator button mechanism. Discard the albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol when the indicator displays 0 or after the expiration date on the product, whichever comes first. The labeled amount of medication in each actuation cannot be assured after the indicator displays 0, even though the canister is not completely empty and will continue to operate. Never immerse the canister into water to determine how full the canister is ("float test"). Albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol does not contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as the propellant. Repackaged and Distributed By: Remedy Repack, Inc. 625 Kolter Dr. Suite #4 Indiana, PA 1-724-465-8762
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: ALBUTEROL SULFATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Recalls
Source: FDA Enforcement| Classification | Reported | Firm | Reason | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class II | January 3, 2024 | CARDINAL HEALTHCARE | CGMP Deviations: Products were exposed to temperatures outside of the products labeled storage conditions. | Terminated |
| Class II | January 3, 2024 | CARDINAL HEALTHCARE | CGMP Deviations: Products were exposed to temperatures outside of the products labeled storage conditions. | Terminated |
| Class II | June 15, 2022 | Mckesson Medical-Surgical Inc. Corporate Office | cGMP deviations: Temperature abuse | Terminated |
| Class II | September 30, 2020 | Perrigo Company PLC | Defective Delivery System: Sustained trend of failure to dispense complaints. | Terminated |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50090-5231-0 | 50090-5231 | A-S Medication Solutions | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (50090-5231-0) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | October 8, 2020 |
| 80425-0266-1 | 80425-0266 | Advanced Rx Pharmacy of Tennessee, LLC | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (80425-0266-1) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | February 9, 2023 |
| 80425-0359-1 | 80425-0359 | Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (80425-0359-1) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | September 7, 2023 |
| 76420-088-01 | 76420-088 | Asclemed USA, Inc. | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (76420-088-01) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | October 13, 2020 |
| 76420-350-90 | 76420-350 | Asclemed USA, Inc. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (76420-350-90) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | May 7, 2025 |
| 76420-531-01 | 76420-531 | Asclemed USA, Inc. | 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER (76420-531-01) | December 13, 2022 |
| 85534-0039-0 | 85534-0039 | HAWAII REPACK, INC. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (85534-0039-0) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | July 3, 2026 |
| 51662-1267-1 | 51662-1267 | HF Acquisition Co LLC, DBA HealthFirst | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (51662-1267-1) / 60 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | September 22, 2018 |
| 51662-1267-9 | 51662-1267 | HF Acquisition Co LLC, DBA HealthFirst | 60 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER (51662-1267-9) | September 22, 2018 |
| 51662-1513-1 | 51662-1513 | HF Acquisition Co LLC, DBA HealthFirst | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (51662-1513-1) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | August 18, 2020 |
| 0054-0742-87 | 0054-0742 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (0054-0742-87) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | November 30, 2021 |
| 68180-963-01 | 68180-963 | Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (68180-963-01) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | August 25, 2020 |
| 68071-5312-6 | 68071-5312 | NuCare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (68071-5312-6) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | August 4, 2026 |
| 68071-2300-2 | 68071-2300 | NuCare Pharmaceuticals,Inc. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (68071-2300-2) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | November 19, 2020 |
| 68071-4940-2 | 68071-4940 | NuCare Pharmaceuticals,Inc. | 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 BOX (68071-4940-2) | June 25, 2019 |
| 45802-088-01 | 45802-088 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (45802-088-01) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | February 26, 2020 |
| 66993-019-68 | 66993-019 | Prasco Laboratories | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (66993-019-68) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | January 15, 2019 |
| 68788-7996-2 | 68788-7996 | Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (68788-7996-2) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | August 10, 2021 |
| 68788-8787-2 | 68788-8787 | Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (68788-8787-2) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | December 16, 2024 |
| 68788-8878-2 | 68788-8878 | Preferred Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (68788-8878-2) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | May 19, 2025 |
| 71205-211-85 | 71205-211 | Proficient Rx LP | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (71205-211-85) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | June 1, 2019 |
| 71205-441-85 | 71205-441 | Proficient Rx LP | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (71205-441-85) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | April 1, 2020 |
| 71205-732-85 | 71205-732 | Proficient Rx LP | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (71205-732-85) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | December 21, 2022 |
| 82804-036-67 | 82804-036 | Proficient Rx LP | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (82804-036-67) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | October 26, 2023 |
| 82804-189-67 | 82804-189 | Proficient Rx LP | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (82804-189-67) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | January 24, 2025 |
| 70518-3541-0 | 70518-3541 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (70518-3541-0) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | September 28, 2022 |
| 70518-4528-0 | 70518-4528 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (70518-4528-0) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | December 3, 2025 |
| 0781-7296-85 | 0781-7296 | Sandoz Inc | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (0781-7296-85) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | March 15, 2021 |
| 85766-020-90 | 85766-020 | Sportpharm LLC | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (85766-020-90) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | August 5, 2025 |
| 85766-055-90 | 85766-055 | Sportpharm LLC | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (85766-055-90) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | November 19, 2025 |
| 85766-062-90 | 85766-062 | Sportpharm LLC | 1 CANISTER in 1 CARTON (85766-062-90) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 CANISTER | September 17, 2025 |
| 0093-3174-31 | 0093-3174 | Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. | 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (0093-3174-31) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER | January 16, 2019 |
| 50090-5231 | 50090-5231 | A-S Medication Solutions | — | August 25, 2020 |
| 80425-0266 | 80425-0266 | Advanced Rx Pharmacy of Tennessee, LLC | — | February 9, 2023 |
| 80425-0359 | 80425-0359 | Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC | — | September 7, 2023 |
| 76420-088 | 76420-088 | Asclemed USA, Inc. | — | January 16, 2019 |
| 76420-350 | 76420-350 | Asclemed USA, Inc. | — | August 25, 2020 |
| 76420-531 | 76420-531 | Asclemed USA, Inc. | — | November 30, 2021 |
| 85534-0039 | 85534-0039 | HAWAII REPACK, INC. | — | November 30, 2021 |
| 51662-1267 | 51662-1267 | HF Acquisition Co LLC, DBA HealthFirst | — | September 22, 2018 |
| 51662-1513 | 51662-1513 | HF Acquisition Co LLC, DBA HealthFirst | — | August 18, 2020 |
| 0054-0742 | 0054-0742 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | November 30, 2021 |
| 68180-963 | 68180-963 | Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | August 25, 2020 |
| 68071-5312 | 68071-5312 | NuCare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | November 30, 2021 |
| 68071-2300 | 68071-2300 | NuCare Pharmaceuticals,Inc. | — | August 25, 2020 |
| 68071-4940 | 68071-4940 | NuCare Pharmaceuticals,Inc. | — | January 16, 2019 |
| 45802-088 | 45802-088 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | — | February 26, 2020 |
| 66993-019 | 66993-019 | Prasco Laboratories | — | January 15, 2019 |
| 68788-7996 | 68788-7996 | Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. | — | August 10, 2021 |
| 68788-8787 | 68788-8787 | Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. | — | December 16, 2024 |
| 68788-8878 | 68788-8878 | Preferred Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | May 19, 2025 |
| 71205-211 | 71205-211 | Proficient Rx LP | — | January 16, 2019 |
| 71205-441 | 71205-441 | Proficient Rx LP | — | February 26, 2020 |
| 71205-732 | 71205-732 | Proficient Rx LP | — | August 25, 2020 |
| 82804-036 | 82804-036 | Proficient Rx LP | — | March 15, 2021 |
| 82804-189 | 82804-189 | Proficient Rx LP | — | November 30, 2021 |
| 70518-3541 | 70518-3541 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | — | September 28, 2022 |
| 70518-4528 | 70518-4528 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | — | December 3, 2025 |
| 0781-7296 | 0781-7296 | Sandoz Inc | — | March 15, 2021 |
| 85766-020 | 85766-020 | Sportpharm LLC | — | November 30, 2021 |
| 85766-055 | 85766-055 | Sportpharm LLC | — | February 26, 2020 |
| 85766-062 | 85766-062 | Sportpharm LLC | — | August 25, 2020 |
| 0093-3174 | 0093-3174 | Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. | — | January 16, 2019 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
| Enforcement | FDA | Recall records |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.