Albuterol Sulfate HFA

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Sep 08, 2023

Pros & Cons


What are the pros and cons of albuterol sulfate (ProAir, Proventil, Ventolin)?

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  • Albuterol sulfate is a fast-acting medication that can help you breathe easier within minutes.
  • You do not need to use albuterol sulfate regularly. This medicine can be kept at home and used as needed to relieve breathing problems or other asthma symptoms.
  • The medication is available in many different forms, so there are other options if one is not convenient or doesn’t work for you.
  • Albuterol sulfate can be prescribed to children as young as 2 years old (liquid for oral inhalation) and 4 years old (aerosol for inhalation).

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  • Albuterol sulfate has a short action, so you might need to use it 3-4 times a day.
  • This medicine may not be appropriate for patients with heart disease.
  •  Using an albuterol inhaler may be challenging for some children.
  • The risk of side effects, such as a fast heartbeat, is higher with albuterol sulfate than other asthma medications like levalbuterol (Xopenex).