Ventolin contains the active ingredients salbutamol which is very effective and works very quickly. Ventolin stimulates the beta receptors in the lungs and airways, thereby ensuring that the whole area is relaxed again under the influence of Ventolin. Then you can breathe easier again and the other symptoms of an asthma attack will also cease or be alleviated, such as cough and sore throat. Ventolin works for about 4 hours.
Take one or two doses of Ventolin just before or during an acute asthma attack. The Ventolin will then begin to work immediately and will make it noticeably easier to breathe.
Whether you take Ventolin to prevent an attack of asthma or use it as an emergency medication during asthma attacks, the dosage and how often you should take Ventolin, is to be determined by the doctor. You should not simply stop the use of Ventolin when you think your condition has improved, but consult a doctor for advice.
Using the nebuliser
this medicine must only be used in a nebuliser
inhale Ventolin through the mouth
if you are unsure how to use your nebuliser or are having problems using it please contact your physician or pharmacist
you should always try to have your medicine in a well ventilated room. Make sure to avoid contact with the eyes
if your prescriber has advised you to dilute this medicine, you may do so using sterile normal saline
throw away any liquid remaining in the nebuliser after use
Contraindications for Ventolin
You should not take if you Ventolin when you:
are allergic or sensitive to or have had a reaction to any of the ingredients in the medicine
have a low level of oxygen in the blood
have a threatened miscarriage
have diabetes or heart disease
are pregnant or breastfeeding
have premature labour with certain complications
Should the asthma worsen while you use Ventolin, you should inform a doctor immediately.
Ventolin side effects
Like many medications, Ventolin may cause side effects. Examples of these include:
• faster heart rates
• muscle cramps
Warning: Ventolin influences the responsiveness and the ability to drive.
Interactions with Ventolin
You should not use Ventolin simultaneously with others following medications:
• non-selective beta-blockers
• medicines for thyroid disease
• medicines for Parkinson’s disease
• certain heart medications
• certain antidepressants
• certain medicines for diabetes
• certain medicines for inflammatory diseases