MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Bambuterol: uses, side effects & brands
Bambuterol is a long-acting oral bronchodilator taken once at night. It belongs to the Bronchodilator & inhaled steroid (extra) group. These open the airways or reduce airway inflammation in asthma and COPD.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Bronchodilator & inhaled steroid (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Long-term control of asthma, together with an inhaled steroid
- COPD and chronic bronchitis
- Night-time asthma symptoms
Common brand names
- India: Bambudil, Betaday
- Worldwide: Bambec
Common side effects
- Shaky hands (tremor)
- Palpitations
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
Before taking it — precautions
- Before any surgery, tell the anaesthetist: it prolongs the effect of some muscle-relaxant drugs
- Tell your doctor about heart disease, an overactive thyroid or diabetes
- Tell your doctor about liver or kidney disease
When to see a doctor urgently
- Worsening breathlessness or an asthma attack (urgent)
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat (urgent)
- Swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing (urgent)
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of bambuterol depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it taken at night?
It is long-acting and converts slowly into its active form, so a bedtime dose helps control night and morning symptoms.
Can I stop my steroid inhaler?
No. In asthma, it should be used together with a preventer inhaler, not instead of it.
Is it a reliever?
No. Keep your quick-relief inhaler for sudden symptoms.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.