Ventolin (albuterol)
Overview
Ventolin is one of the more commonly prescribed asthma inhalers.
Ventolin Inhaler is prescribed for the prevention as well as the treatment of asthma attacks.
It may also be used 15 minutes before vigorous activity to prevent exercise-induced asthma.
Special Precautions
Although Ventolin is very effective, care must be taken not to overuse it.
Because of a relatively short duration of action of 4 to 6 hours, people may tempted to use their inhaler too frequently. This could lead to complications, including increased breathing difficulties or heart problems.
Individuals with preexisting heart conditions, diabetes, seizures, prostate problems or an overactive thyroid gland should use Ventolin only under close supervision, if at all.
Ventolin Inhaler needs to be kept at room temperature - that is, between 59 and 86 degrees. If the aerosol is used at a different temperature, it may not provide an accurate dose.
Taking the Medicine
Use of inhalers is not as easy as it may seem. Make sure your physician provides detailed instructions and demonstrates how to inhale the aerosol so that the medicine ends up in the lungs and not in the back of the throat.
Never try to use the inhaler when you have food, beverage, chewing gum or anything else in your mouth.
Side Effects and Interactions
One advantage of inhaled asthma medicine is that relatively little is absorbed into the body to cause unpleasant side effects.
However, inhaled Ventolin can cause palpitations or rapid heart beat in some people.
Other possible side effects include nausea, tremor, nervousness, increased blood pressure, heartburn and dizziness.
There are rare reports of rash, itching, and allergic reactions that interfere with breathing.
In addition, the active ingredient in Ventolin can precipitate angina, insomnia, headache, unusual taste and irritation of the throat. Report any symptoms to your physician promptly.
Ventolin can interact with several other medications. Do not use a similar kind of bronchodilating inhaler such as Berotec, Brethaire, Alupent, Metaprel, Proventil or Tornalate simultaneously with Ventolin.
Certain antidepressants may also be dangerous in combination with this asthma drug.
Thyroid medication and antihistamines do not mix well with Ventolin, and beta blocker medications may counteract its effectiveness.
Check with your pharmacist and physician before using any other medication in combination with this inhaler.
