In dental emergencies, which drug provides immediate relief of bronchospasm?

• A. Adrenaline
• B. GTN spray
• C. Glucogel
• D. Salbutamol inhaler

Answer: (D)

Immediate relief from bronchospasm relies on a fast-acting bronchodilator delivered directly to the lungs. Salbutamol inhaler fits this perfectly because it is a short-acting beta-2 agonist that binds receptors on bronchial smooth muscle, causing rapid relaxation and opening of the airways. Delivering it by inhalation concentrates the effect in the lungs and minimizes systemic impact, so you usually see improvement within minutes. In a dental emergency, the typical approach is to have the patient use two puffs, with a spacer if available, and repeat every 30–60 seconds up to a total of about 10 puffs, stopping earlier if symptoms resolve. If there’s no improvement, seek emergency help.

Adrenaline can also relieve bronchospasm in severe allergic reactions, but it has more pronounced systemic effects and is not the default rescue treatment for isolated bronchospasm. GTN spray is for chest pain due to coronary issues, not bronchospasm. Glucogel treats hypoglycemia. So the inhaled salbutamol inhaler provides the quickest, targeted relief for bronchospasm.