What are Ventolin inhalers?

Ventolin asthma inhalers contain the active ingredient salbutamol which helps provide asthma sufferers with relief from breathing difficulties and wheezing. The drug works quickly and efficiently, relaxing the airways to help make breathing easier and relieve signs of acute asthma attacks such as tightness of the chest, coughing and shortness of breath. Asthma is a common condition that affects the respiratory system, leading to inflammation in the lungs and smaller airways, and the air sacs or alveoli.

How do Ventolin Inhalers Work?

Asthma is caused by the airways becoming inflamed which makes it difficult for air to pass through. The lining can sometimes become coated with mucous as well, which also contributes to the narrowing of the airways. Asthma can be a fatal condition if the asthma attack is severe. Ventolin inhalers contain 100ug of salbutamol. Salbutamol, a bronchodilator, which works on the beta-2 receptors in the lungs to relax the muscles which surround the airways in a short amount of time which eases the asthma attack or prevents it from worsening.

How to use Ventolin inhalers

Ventolin inhalers can take a little coordination to get used to in order to get the maximum benefit from the drug. These are the steps you should take when using your Ventolin inhaler:

• Remove the cap of the inhaler and shake it just before use
• Take a normal breath then breathe out completely
• Put your mouth over the mouthpiece, sealing it so there are no gaps where air can escape
• Breathe in deeply and slowly then press the canister button down at the top, continuing to breathe inwards as deeply as possible
• Hold your breath for approximately 10 seconds to allow the drug to begin working and then slowly breathe out

Your GP will advise how many inhalations of the inhaler you will need in order to relieve your symptoms; however, it is typically prescribed every four to six hours as needed. The exact dosage is based on the severity of your condition. Ventolin is designed to be used as and when your symptoms arise, not as a regular medication to be taken every day.

If you are using Ventolin to prevent an asthma attack brought on from exercising, inhale as prescribed by your GP up to 30 minutes before exercise. If two inhalations of the drug are required, wait at least one minute between each of them.

What are the side effects of Ventolin?

Common side effects of Ventolin include:

• Headaches
• Feeling shaky
• Heart beating faster
• Sore throat
• Chest pain
• Nervousness
• Dizziness

Salbutamol can decrease the levels of potassium in your blood, which can cause rarer side effects in some people. It can also cause an increase in blood pressure, so be sure to check your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication and inform your GP of any increases.

Rarer side effects include:

• Irritation of the mouth and throat
• Muscle cramps
• Increased blood flow to the arms and legs

Inform your health care provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Irregular heartbeat
• Rashes or a swelling or the face, tongue or throat

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any previous experience of reactions to similar drugs, including levalbuterol, terbutaline and metaproterenol; you should also inform them of any other allergies you have as these may be triggered by the active ingredient in Ventolin inhalers.

Before using this medication, inform your GP of any previous medical history including heart problems, such as heart attacks or angina, high blood pressure or seizures. You should also inform them of any other medication you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription drugs and herbal products, as these may affect how effective the medication is.

Ventolin inhalers are typically considered to be safe during pregnancy if taken as prescribed but check with your GP before using if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can I buy Ventolin inhalers online?

Yes, Ventolin inhalers can be purchased online via a prescription from a registered doctor. You can fill out a medical questionnaire online which will be reviewed by a GP and issued to you if you are considered to be suitable for the medicine.