Albuterol
Proair is a brand-name rescue inhaler containing albuterol, a short-acting bronchodilator used to quickly relieve breathing difficulties associated with asthma, COPD, and exercise-induced bronchospasm. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways to open them up, allowing for easier breathing within minutes of use. This medication is typically used as needed for acute symptom relief rather than as a daily controller medication.
Proair is a fast-acting rescue inhaler that provides quick relief from asthma and COPD symptoms by opening narrowed airways.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 647295
- Generic
- Proair
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Proair is used to treat and prevent bronchospasm in people with reversible obstructive airway disease, including asthma and COPD. It is also commonly prescribed to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm. The medication is intended for short-term, as-needed use for acute symptom relief.
Proair contains albuterol, a beta-2 adrenergic agonist that relaxes smooth muscle tissue in the bronchial airways. By stimulating these receptors, it causes the airway muscles to dilate, reducing resistance and allowing air to flow more freely in and out of the lungs. Effects typically begin within minutes and last 4-6 hours.
Proair is a rescue medication, not a controller therapy, and should not replace daily maintenance inhalers if prescribed. Patients should seek medical attention if they need to use the inhaler more frequently than prescribed, as increased use may indicate worsening asthma. Common side effects may include tremor, headache, and increased heart rate. Always follow prescribed dosing instructions and rinse mouth after use to reduce the risk of oral thrush.
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 29, 2026. · Read our editorial policy