Pirbuterol
Pirbuterol is a short-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist (SABA) used as a bronchodilator to treat asthma and other obstructive airway conditions. It provides rapid relief of bronchospasm by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways, making breathing easier. The medication is typically delivered via inhalation.
Pirbuterol is a quick-relief inhaler medication for asthma and respiratory conditions that works by relaxing airway muscles.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- R03AC08
- RxNorm
- 33767
- Generic
- Pirbuterol
- Class
- atc-r03
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- inhaler
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
7 groupspregnancy
first trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if benefits outweigh potential risks to fetus
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second and third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
continue use if needed for asthma control, do not discontinue inhaled therapy
routine prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
use inhaled form preferentially, monitor infant for irritability
observe infant for signs of beta-agonist effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlystart with lower dose
use with caution due to potential cardiovascular sensitivity
monitor heart rate and blood pressure
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 12weight-based dosing
use appropriate pediatric formulation, do not exceed recommended dose
monitor for paradoxical bronchospasm
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno significant adjustment needed
use with caution, monitor for accumulation
monitor renal function periodically
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno significant adjustment needed
use with caution in severe impairment
monitor liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Drug class information
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological mechanism information
Common uses
Therapeutic applications
Route of administration
Delivery method
Pirbuterol is used to treat and prevent bronchospasm associated with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other reversible obstructive airway diseases. It is specifically indicated for the relief of acute symptoms and prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Pirbuterol is a selective beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. It stimulates beta-2 receptors in the bronchial smooth muscle, causing relaxation of the airway walls and dilation of the bronchi. This action reduces airway resistance and allows for easier airflow, providing rapid symptom relief.
Pirbuterol is intended for acute symptom relief and should not replace controller medications in patients requiring regular maintenance therapy. Common side effects may include tremor, tachycardia, and nervousness. Patients should follow dosing instructions carefully and seek medical attention if usual doses become less effective or require more frequent use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy