Salbutamol is a commonly prescribed medicine in the UK, used for asthma. If you have just been prescribed salbutamol, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 14 July 2026.
What is salbutamol?
Salbutamol is a reliever inhaler that quickly opens the airways to ease breathlessness and wheeze in asthma and other lung conditions.
Brands and strengths
Salbutamol is the name of the active ingredient. In the UK it is sold as generic salbutamol and under brand names including Ventolin, Salamol and Ventodisks — all contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Salbutamol 100 microgram inhaler tablets
- UK brands: Ventolin, Salamol and Ventodisks
What salbutamol is used for
- Asthma
- COPD and other breathing conditions
How to take salbutamol
Used when you need it for symptoms, and before exercise if advised. If you are needing your reliever often, tell your GP or asthma nurse — your treatment may need reviewing. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions (BNF).
Side effects
Common effects include a fast heartbeat, shakiness and headache, which soon pass. Seek urgent help if your breathing does not improve after using it. This is not a full list — see the patient information leaflet (BNF).
Salbutamol: frequently asked questions
Yes. Ventolin is the original brand name for salbutamol; the inhaler contains the same active ingredient.
As needed for symptoms. Needing it three or more times a week is a sign your asthma needs reviewing.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for salbutamol, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your salbutamol delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for salbutamol, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE; BNF — Salbutamol.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.