What is the primary use of albuterol?

Albuterol is primarily used as a bronchodilator to relieve bronchospasm in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by stimulating beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscles of the airways, leading to relaxation and dilation of these muscles, which makes breathing easier. This rapid action makes albuterol particularly effective for providing quick relief during an asthma attack or episodes of wheezing.

The other choices related to high blood pressure, blood clots, and diabetes pertain to entirely different classes of medications and therapeutic interventions. High blood pressure is typically managed with antihypertensive agents, while anticoagulants are used to prevent blood clots, and diabetes is managed with insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents. These alternative uses are not relevant to albuterol, highlighting its specific role in respiratory conditions.