Ventolin (generic name: Albuterol / Salbutamol; brand names: Ventorlin / Asthalin / Proventil / ProAir / Salamol / Aerolin) is a bronchodilator used for treating or preventing breathing problems in patients who have asthma or certain other airway diseases. Ventolin inhaler is called a 'reliever puffer' as it provides quick relief from sudden asthma attacks.
Ventolin is indicated for the relief and prevention of airway obstruction (bronchospasm) in patients with asthma and in patients with exercise-induced asthma. Ventolin can also be used in treating patients with emphysema and chronic bronchitis when their symptoms are related to reversible airway obstruction.
Ventolin works by relaxing the smooth muscle in the airway, which allows air to flow in and out of the lungs more easily.
The inhaled form of Ventolin starts working within 15 minutes and can last up to 6 hours.
Recommendations
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use Ventolin exactly as directed.
For treatment or prevention of sudden asthma symptoms, the usual dosage for adults and children 4 years of age and older is 2 puffs repeated every 4 to 6 hours; in some patients, 1 puff every 4 hours may be enough. It is not recommended to use Ventolin more frequently or to take a larger number of puffs.
For exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB), the usual dosage for adults and children 4 years and older is 2 puffs 15 to 30 minutes before exercise.
Be careful not to get Ventolin inhalation into your eyes. Do not use your Ventolin inhaler when you are near a flame or source of heat.
If you forget a dose, do not worry. Just take the next dose at the normal time or earlier if you become wheezy or feel tight in the chest.
Keep your Ventolin inhaler away from frost. Do not put it in the refrigerator. Keep your Ventolin inhaler away from bright sunlight and away from heat. Do not leave it in the car on hot days.
Precautions
Before using Ventolin inhaler, tell your doctor if:
you are allergic to any medicines; you are having treatment for a thyroid problem or high blood pressure; you have a heart, liver or kidney problem; you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
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