Salbutamol (Albuterol): Mechanism of action

In this video we explain the mechanism of action, intracellular pathway and clinical application of Salbutamol. We use simple explanations and diagrams that are easy to understand, aimed at helping medical students and healthcare professionals of all levels.

Timestamps:
01:07 - Mechanism of action
05:17 - Intracellular pathway
10:43 - Clinical application
13:26 - Summary

Salbutamol is a short acting Beta-2 agonist, and an agonist is something which initiates a physiological response when bound with a receptor. Salbutamol selectively binds to beta-2 receptors. A beta 2 receptor is a subgroup of adrenergic receptor, adrenergic meaning receptors which bind adrenaline and noradrenaline. Therefore when salbutamol binds to beta-2 receptor it mimics the effects that adrenaline and noradrenalin would have. Because salbutamol mimics the effect of the sympathetic nervous system it is known as sympathomimetic drug. The main target site for salbutamol is the bronchial smooth muscle, but beta-2 adrenergic receptors are also located on other cells and tissues throughout the body which is what causes some of the adverse effects. When salbutamol binds to beta-2 receptors in bronchial smooth muscle is causes an intracellular cascade that inhibits contraction of the muscle fibres. This leads to relaxation of the bronchial smooth making it easier to breath. Salbutamol is commonly utilised in asthma attacks, anaphylaxis, exacerbations of COPD and in the treatment of hyperkalemia.

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Although this video is designed to provide education, it should not be used to guide clinical practice, treatment or medical decision making. These videos are designed to provide a detailed overview of each topic, and although a lot of research goes into each video errors can occur and medical practice, medical information and protocols may change over time, which is why it is important to follow local and national guidelines. These videos do not constitute medical advice, medical advice should be obtained from an appropriate healthcare provider or senior clinician.