Ventolin

A ventolin inhaler is used by asthmatics to relieve their condition and to prevent further asthma attacks.

The ventolin inhaler contains a bronchodilator. It acts on the airways in the lungs which have been narrowed due to an asthma attack. The bronchodilator helps keep the airways open, allowing air to move in and out more easily. This helps to relieve chest tightness, wheezing and coughing.

Yes, this will help ensure it works properly. You should clean your inhaler once a week. You should remove the metal canister from the plastic case and remove the mouthpiece cover. Wash the plastic case under warm water and dry it thoroughly, both inside and outside. Then you can put the inhaler back together. You should not put any metal part in water.

Yes, you can obtain a prescription for your ventolin inhaler online from Zava.

Anyone who has asthma might be prescribed a ventolin inhaler, if it is suitable for them. The inhaler can be used in the specific case of asthma attacks, or as a regular treatment. Children and adults can use ventolin inhalers, but directions for use will be different.

There is no evidence that the treatment is addictive in any way. However, if you find yourself using the inhaler more frequently than advised, this may be a sign that the treatment is not working effectively. In this case, you should consult your doctor.

No. The propellant used is a hydrofluoroalkane. These are not harmful to you or the environment.

You should replace it as soon as the dose counter reads 020. If the counter reads 000, throw the inhaler away. In addition, check the expiration date on the inhaler, and do not use it after this date.

To use the inhaler, remove the mouthpiece cover. Place the mouthpiece inside your mouth. Do not bite the inhaler. Breathe out. Just after you start to breathe in, press down on the top button to release a “puff”. Breathe in deeply. Remove your finger from the button and remove your mouth from the mouthpiece. Hold your breath, but only for as long as this is comfortable. Wait about half a minute between puffs if multiple puffs are necessary. Replace the mouthpiece cover right away to avoid dust and other debris entering the inhaler. You should stand up or sit up straight while using your ventolin inhaler. You can take your ventolin inhaler with or without food.

For adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over:

• To relieve asthma: one or two puffs
• To prevent asthma: two puffs 10-15 minutes before exercise or exposure to a “trigger”
• For regular treatment: two puffs up to 4 times a day

For children under 12 years of age:

• To relieve asthma: one puff (two if required)
• To prevent asthma: one puff 10-15 minutes before exercise or exposure to a “trigger” (two if required)
• For regular treatment: two puffs up to 4 times a day

The maximum dose is 8 puffs in a 24-hour period.

If you take more puffs than recommended, you may feel shaky and your heart may beat quickly. These effects should wear off within a couple of hours, but it is best to consult your doctor.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if this is near the time for your next dose, do not double up to make up for the missed dose. Just skip the forgotten dose and continue treatment as normal.

Do not stop taking the inhaler without speaking to your doctor.

Do not use more than the maximum dose. If the treatment is not working and your symptoms are severe, seek medical assistance immediately.

You should shake the inhaler well before use, particularly if it is new.

The active substance is salbutamol sulphate or albuterol sulphate. HFA 134a is also an ingredient. Ventolin inhalers are made of an aluminium alloy which is sealed with a metering valve, actuator and dust cap. Each canister contains 200 doses.

If you experience the following side effects, speak to your doctor immediately:

• Fast heart palpitations
• Uneven heartbeat

Some other side effects of using ventolin inhaler include:

• Feeling shaky
• Headache
• Mouth and throat irritation
• Muscle cramps
• A low level of potassium in your blood
• Increased blood flow to your extremities
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Changes in behaviour i.e. excitability

Side effects such as chest pain and angina may also occur, though the frequency of these is not known.

If the medication is not working as effectively as you think it should, do not take extra doses, and consult your doctor.

Fewer than 1 in 10,000 patients experience an allergic reaction to a ventolin inhaler. Symptoms include swelling of the face, more difficulty breathing and itchy skin. You should seek medical assistance immediately.

You must not use the ventolin inhaler if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

You should talk to your doctor before using the ventolin inhaler if you:

• have high blood pressure
• have an overactive thyroid
• have a history of heart problems e.g. angina
• are taking other medicines for asthma
• are taking medication to regulate your heartbeat

You should consult a doctor before using a ventolin inhaler if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to become pregnant.

Ventolin inhalers are unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, you should not undertake these activities until you know how the inhaler affects you.

Ventolin is prescription-only medication. If you have been diagnosed with asthma, your GP will tell you which asthma treatment you need and how to use it. You will be able to obtain your inhaler from any pharmacy. For a repeat prescription, you can use our quick and convenient online doctor service and have your prescription delivered to your door.