Clenbuterol is approved for use in some countries as a bronchodilator for asthma.[medical citation needed]

Clenbuterol is a β2 agonist with some structural and pharmacological similarities to epinephrine and salbutamol, but its effects are more potent and longer-lasting as a stimulant and thermogenic drug.[citation needed] It is commonly used for smooth muscle-relaxant properties as a bronchodilator and tocolytic.

It is classified by the World Anti-Doping Agency as an anabolic agent, not as a β2 agonist.[4]

Clenbuterol is prescribed for treatment of respiratory diseases for horses, and as an obstetrical aid in cattle.[5] It is illegal in some countries to use in livestock used for food.[6]