Drug in inhalation form containing a substance that dilates the bronchi and eliminates breathing problems caused by conditions where bronchospasm is one of the symptoms. The onset of action occurs within a few minutes, and the effect usually lasts 4-6 hours.
What does Ventolin contain and how does it work?
Packs
The active substance of the preparation is salbutamol, in the form of salbutamol sulphate. This substance belongs to sympathomimetics. All sympathomimetics act by stimulating specific types of receptors called adrenergic receptors, which are located on the surface of certain cells in the body. In the case of inhaled salbutamol, beta2-adrenergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle are stimulated. Inhalation is intended to help the drug reach the site of action quickly and directly, meaning the beta2 receptors in the respiratory tract, while reducing systemic side effects. Stimulation of these receptors leads to muscle relaxation and bronchodilation, which makes the free flow of air to the lungs easier. Lung ventilation improves, and the patient feels significant relief or complete disappearance of breathlessness caused by contraction of the airway muscles.
When to use Ventolin?
Aerosol:
The preparation is recommended for the treatment of bronchospasm in patients with asthma and for the treatment of reversible obstruction, or reduced patency, of the airways. The preparation may also be used preventively before exercise in patients with exercise-induced asthma or before expected contact with an allergen that causes dyspnoea.
Inhalation fluid:
The preparation is recommended for the treatment of acute, severe attacks of bronchial asthma, as well as for bronchospasms that do not respond to the usual methods of treatment.
When not to use this preparation?
Unfortunately, even when there are indications for using the preparation, it cannot always be used. You must not use the preparation if you are allergic, or hypersensitive, to any of its ingredients.
It must not be used to prevent threatening miscarriage or premature birth. Salbutamol inhibits uterine contractions. When administered orally or intravenously, it is sometimes used in the prevention of preterm labor, although this indication is off-label in Canada.
When should you take special care with Ventolin?
Certain diseases and other circumstances may be a contraindication to using the preparation or may require a dosage change. In some cases, specific check-ups may be necessary.
Therefore, before using the preparation, you should inform your doctor if you suspect or have been diagnosed with:
- overactive thyroid gland
- heart failure, ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias
- diabetes
or if you have used previously:
- high doses of sympathomimetics.
If you suffer from any cardiovascular disorders and develop shortness of breath or chest pain while using the preparation, you should consult your doctor. These symptoms may indicate an adverse effect of salbutamol on the cardiovascular system and worsening of its dysfunction.
Important! If you notice that the usual dose of the preparation does not relieve symptoms, consult a doctor as soon as possible. The same applies if you need to use a larger dose to relieve symptoms or if you need your usual doses more and more often. Increased use of bronchodilators indicates worsening asthma and raises the risk of an acute attack. Your doctor will assess your condition and review further treatment. For example, the doctor may increase the dose of inhaled corticosteroids or introduce oral corticosteroids.
In the treatment of severe or unstable asthma, Ventolin cannot be used as the primary or only drug. In this situation, combination therapy with anti-inflammatory drugs is necessary. Your doctor will likely recommend regular corticosteroid use as the basis of treatment.
Also remember that even if you feel better, you must not stop or modify your anti-inflammatory drug, corticosteroid, treatment without consulting your doctor.
Rarely, some people may experience a counterproductive sharp bronchospasm, called paradoxical bronchospasm, after taking a dose from a bronchodilator inhaler. This contraction may be strong enough to become life-threatening. In such a case, stop using the preparation immediately, use another quick-acting inhaled bronchodilator, and seek medical attention.
Dosage of Ventolin
Use the preparation according to your doctor’s recommendations. Do not exceed the recommended doses, because this will not increase the effectiveness of the drug and may harm your health and life. If you have any doubts about using the preparation, consult your doctor. It is recommended to take the preparation on an ad hoc basis. Unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor, the usual doses are:
Aerosol:
- Adults: To stop sudden bronchospasm: 1 to 2 doses, 100 to 200 µg.
- Preventive use before exercise or contact with an allergen: 2 doses, 2 times 100 µg each, 10–15 min. before exercise or contact with an allergen.
- Children: To stop bronchospasm and before exercise or contact with an allergen: 1 to 2 doses, 100 to 200 µg.
Remember never to exceed 8 doses, 800 µg, per day. Children should take their doses under adult supervision.
Inhalation fluid from the nebulizer:
Adults and children: The dose of the drug depends on the severity and type of disease. Usually, a single dose of 2.5 to 5 mg is sufficient. If necessary, the dose may be repeated up to 4 times a day. Larger doses, in adults up to 40 mg, may be used only in a hospital setting.
Can I use other preparations in parallel?
Tell your doctor about all medications you have recently taken, including over-the-counter products.
In particular, inform your doctor if you use or have used:
- other drugs that stimulate adrenergic receptors, sympathomimetics, e.g. fenoterol, formeterol, salmeterol, phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, adrenaline;
- beta-adrenergic blockers, sympatholytics from the group of beta-blockers, so-called “beta-blockers”, such as propranolol, metoprolol;
- medicines for diabetes;
- xanthine derivatives, e.g. theophylline;
- diuretics, e.g. furosemide;
- steroids.
Interactions between salbutamol and other drugs acting on adrenergic receptors may have a harmful effect on the cardiovascular system. Beta-adrenergic blockers, so-called “beta-blockers” used, for example, in the treatment of high blood pressure or heart problems, inhibit the effect of salbutamol and should not be used together with salbutamol.
Salbutamol may reduce the effect of antidiabetic drugs. If you are taking salbutamol or other beta2-agonists, you may develop a potentially severe form of hypokalemia, meaning severe symptoms of potassium deficiency. This risk may be higher if you are also taking diuretics, used for example to treat high blood pressure, or if you have severe asthma treated with xanthines, e.g. theophylline, or corticosteroids. Consult your doctor to find out whether your blood potassium levels should be checked regularly and how often these tests should be performed.
Disclaimer
This patient information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Do not use this page as a basis for purchasing, starting, stopping, or changing treatment without consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Product names, trademarks, company names, and referenced materials are included for informational and legal purposes only.