This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Who can use salbutamol inhalers
Most adults and children of all ages can use salbutamol inhalers.
Most adults can use salbutamol in a nebuliser.
Children and young people aged under 18 years old can use salbutamol in a nebuliser only if it's with advice from a specialist. This is because children who need to use a nebuliser at home should be monitored by a specialist to make sure their condition is not getting worse.
Who may not be able to use salbutamol inhalers
Salbutamol is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, check with your doctor before starting to use salbutamol if you have:
- ever had an allergic reaction to salbutamol or any other medicine
- any heart problems
- an overactive thyroid
- low levels of potassium in your blood
- diabetes
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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