Albuterol
Proventil (albuterol) is a short-acting bronchodilator used to treat and prevent wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness caused by asthma, COPD, or exercise-induced bronchospasm. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe within minutes of use. This medication is commonly used as a rescue inhaler for acute symptoms.
Proventil is a fast-acting rescue inhaler that opens airways to provide quick relief from asthma and COPD symptoms.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 202908
- Generic
- Proventil
- 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.
Treatment and relief of acute bronchospasm associated with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and exercise-induced bronchospasm. Often used as a rescue medication during asthma attacks or flare-ups.
Proventil contains albuterol, a beta-2 adrenergic agonist that stimulates receptors in the bronchial smooth muscles, causing them to relax and dilate. This opens the airways and allows air to flow more freely, providing rapid symptom relief typically within 5-15 minutes.
Proventil is for acute symptom relief, not long-term control. Overuse may indicate poorly controlled asthma. Common side effects include tremor, increased heart rate, and nervousness. Patients should seek emergency care if they experience worsening breathing or the medication becomes less effective.
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 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy