Proair Inhaler is a short-acting bronchodilator delivered by a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). Its only active ingredient is salbutamol, a beta₂-adrenergic agonist that relaxes airway smooth muscle.
The device provides rapid relief of reversible airway narrowing in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Salbutamol belongs to the short-acting beta₂-adrenergic agonist (SABA) group. When inhaled, it binds to beta₂ receptors on bronchial smooth muscle, triggering a cascade that increases cyclic AMP. Elevated cyclic AMP leads to:
The onset of action is usually within 5 minutes, the peak effect occurs at 15-30 minutes, and the clinical benefit lasts for 4-6 hours. Because the drug is delivered directly to the lungs, systemic exposure is minimal, limiting widespread side effects.
Proair Inhaler is approved in Hong Kong for the relief of acute bronchospasm associated with:
It is intended for as-needed (rescue) use, not for long-term control of airway inflammation. Patients with established asthma or COPD often keep a rescue inhaler on hand for rapid symptom relief.
Special populations such as the elderly may be more sensitive to cardiovascular effects and should use the lowest effective dose.
These effects are typically transient and diminish with continued use or proper inhalation technique.
If patients are unsure about potential interactions, they should provide a full medication list-including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products-to their healthcare provider.
This article provides educational information about Proair Inhaler and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including use for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.
A proper technique involves shaking the inhaler, exhaling fully, pressing the canister while inhaling slowly, holding the breath for about 10 seconds, and then exhaling. This ensures the medication reaches the lower airways and maximises therapeutic effect.
Yes, Proair is a rescue medication and can be used alongside a long-acting controller (e.g., inhaled corticosteroid). The rescue inhaler addresses acute symptoms, while the maintenance inhaler reduces underlying inflammation.
Each puff begins to work within 5 minutes, peaks at 15-30 minutes, and typically lasts 4-6 hours. The duration may vary based on individual lung function and severity of bronchospasm.
Using a puff 10-15 minutes before physical activity can help prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm in susceptible individuals. However, athletes should follow any sport-specific medication rules and disclose inhaler use if required.
Mild tremor is a common side effect. If it persists or is severe, reduce the dose (e.g., one puff instead of two) and discuss alternative rescue options with your clinician.
Proair is approved for children aged 4 years and older when prescribed by a healthcare professional. For younger children, a spacer device may be recommended to improve delivery.
Salbutamol can be detected in urine, and some sporting bodies have specific thresholds. Athletes should consult their governing body's medication list and obtain a therapeutic use exemption if required.
The inhaler contains propellants (HFA-134a), ethanol, and oleic acid as excipients. These components help generate the aerosol but have no therapeutic effect.
Most inhalers have a dose counter; when it reaches “0,” the device is empty. If your inhaler lacks a counter, count the number of actuations (usually 200 doses) and discard after the final puff.
While brand-name inhalers may be pricier, generic versions containing the same 100 µg salbutamol dose are available through the Hospital Authority or private pharmacies, often at a lower price. Availability can vary, so discuss options with your pharmacist.
