Albuterol Sulfate is a long-acting beta agonist, which relaxes the airway muscles to relieve wheezing. Irpatropium Bromide (the other ingredient) is an anti-cholingeric. Both are bronchodilators, and used in combination are often more effective in treating severe asthma and/or COPD.

The issue of nebulizer versus inhaler is again related to difficulty to treat. Nebulized medications, inhaled over a period of 10-20 minutes tend to be better for treating long-term or difficult shortness of breath or severe cases as the medication gets inhaled more deeply into the lungs. I find nebs especially helpful if I have a cold or bronchitis along with my asthma & bronchiectasis. The inhaler should a still be used for quick help when SOB strikes (hence the term "rescue inhaler") and is often effective in place of a nebulizer for mild or moderate breathing issues.

Do you have a history of asthma, chronic bronchitis or COPD, or is the shortness of breath a new issue for you?
Sue