Which statement about albuterol is true?

• A. It is a bronchodilator.
• B. It is a diuretic.
• C. It inhibits beta-adrenergic receptors.
• D. It has a 24-hour duration.

Answer: (A)

Albuterol is a bronchodilator. It is a selective beta-2 adrenergic agonist that binds to receptors on airway smooth muscle, activating adenylate cyclase and increasing cyclic AMP. This causes the smooth muscle to relax, widening the airways and rapidly relieving bronchospasm—exactly why it’s used as a rescue inhaler in asthma and other obstructive airway conditions. It is not a diuretic, and it does not inhibit beta-adrenergic receptors; it stimulates them. Its effect lasts only a few hours (typically about 4–6 hours for inhaled forms), not a full 24 hours, though longer-acting medications exist for maintenance therapy. The quick onset and targeted bronchodilation explain why this statement is true and the others do not fit.