Ventolin

A Ventolin inhaler is used by asthmatics to relieve symptoms of asthma.

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 to 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. To do that, remove the metal canister from the plastic case and take off the mouthpiece cover. Wash the plastic case under warm water and dry it thoroughly, both inside and outside. Then you can reassemble the inhaler back together. Be careful not to put any metal part in water.

Yes, you need a prescription to buy a Ventolin inhaler – you can request yours 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. Both children and adults can use Ventolin inhalers, but directions for use may 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 in Ventolin is a hydrofluoroalkane.

To use the inhaler, remove the mouthpiece cover. Place the mouthpiece inside your mouth, but do not bite the inhaler. Then breathe out. Just after you start to breathe in again, press down on the top button to release a “puff”. Breathe in deeply. Remove your finger from the button and your mouth from the mouthpiece. Hold your breath, but only for as long as this is comfortable. If multiple puffs are necessary, wait about half a minute between puffs. After usage, replace the mouthpiece cover right away to avoid dust and other debris entering the inhaler. Please stand up or sit up straight while using your Ventolin inhaler. It’s possible to use your Ventolin inhaler both with or without food.

You can use your inhaler if you have any asthma symptoms. After usage, you should see an improvement quickly. If you need to use your inhaler more than 3 times a week, please speak to your GP as this suggests your asthma is not well controlled.

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

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 a 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 unknown.

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.

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

Please 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.