You are right to worry.  Swallowing an ihalation solution is not the way to
use it, and in fact can cause some serious problems.  Every package insert
for inhalation solutions that I have seen has emphasized that one should
never swallow the medication.  Yes, there are albuterol tablets, but they
are of different formulation, and even so, not the ideal way to use
albuterol either.

It sounds as if your friend's asthma is not well controlled.  If she is not
on a preventive medication (steroidal inhaler--Flovent, etc.) then she
should see her specialist about getting started with one.  Also, working
with one's doctor to formulate an action plan to manage asthma is valuable,
and potentially lifesaving.