Which of the following is an example of a short-acting beta adrenergic agonist?

Albuterol is classified as a short-acting beta adrenergic agonist (SABA) due to its pharmacological properties and the duration of its action. SABAs typically provide quick relief from acute bronchospasm and are commonly used in the management of asthma and other respiratory conditions. Albuterol works by stimulating beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the bronchial smooth muscle, leading to bronchodilation and thereby easing breathing difficulties.

The rapid onset of action and relatively short duration (usually lasting 4 to 6 hours) makes albuterol particularly effective for responsive treatment during asthma attacks or exacerbations, distinguishing it from other bronchodilator classes like long-acting beta agonists (LABAs). This characteristic situates albuterol among the primary choices when immediate relief is required.

The other options listed, such as salmeterol and formoterol, are long-acting beta adrenergic agonists (LABAs) which have a prolonged effect, typically ranging from 12 to 24 hours, and are not suitable for acute symptom relief. Salbutamol, while technically another name for albuterol in some regions, might cause confusion based on regional naming conventions but is also a SABA. However, in the context of common pharmacological