Ventolin Inhaler

• Ventolin is a prescribed medication used to treat the symptoms of asthma in adults and children.
• It can also be used to treat Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in adults.
• It should be taken when symptoms including wheeze, cough or breathlessness start. 
• One puff of a Ventolin inhaler contains 100mcg of salbutamol, and two puffs are frequently advised to treat symptoms.
• Ventolin works within a few minutes and lasts for about four to six hours.
• It is important to read the patient leaflet for a full list of side effects and cautions. 

Ventolin is a bronchodilator. This means that the salbutamol contained within the inhaler dilates, or widens, the airways to make it easier to breathe in and out. The air passages become wider, reducing wheeze and the feeling of breathlessness. 

As it works within minutes, Ventolin should be taken during an exacerbation of symptoms. It is likely that you will also need a “preventer” inhaler in addition to Ventolin to try to prevent exacerbations.

Ventolin is taken when symptoms of asthma or COPD are present. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s information to ensure you take Ventolin properly. A common dose is two puffs when required. Further puffs can be taken if the first two do not completely resolve the exacerbation.

The inhaler should be shaken prior to use. Gently breathe out and then place the inhaler into your mouth. Press the canister down, and inhale to draw the Ventolin in as you breathe. Hold your breath to allow time for the medication to get deep into your lungs, and then exhale. If you are prescribed a second dose, repeat these steps once more. Taking an inhaler can take some practice, and some people find it helpful to practice in front of a mirror for their first attempts. 

Ventolin inhalers can be combined with a spacer device to make it easier to get the drug into the airways within the lungs. In this case, the Ventolin is sprayed into the spacer chamber, and then the medication can be inhaled at your own pace. This is ideal for children and those who find it difficult to co-ordinate inhaling the medication.

Salbutamol 100mcg / 200mcg

Be sure to check the personalised instructions printed on your medication. Each puff of Ventolin contains 100mcg of salbutamol and it is commonly advised to take two puffs during an exacerbation of asthma or COPD. 

If two puffs are not enough to settle your symptoms, you may need to take a further two puffs. Make sure that you do not exceed the maximum number of doses you can take in a 24 hour period, and seek advice urgently if your symptoms are not settling.

If you notice you need to take Ventolin more frequently or are taking it more than twice a week, speak to a medical professional. It is possible that you may need to increase the dose of your preventer inhaler.

Ventolin is a commonly used medication. However, it does have some common side effects. These are usually well tolerated and settle fairly quickly. Side effects include:

• A tremor or feeling shaky
• Headache
• Mild muscle cramps or tension
• Feeling aware of your heartbeat.

These side effects will not cause harm and are likely to settle as you get used to taking Ventolin.

Very rarely, some more serious side effects can occur. These include:

• A heartbeat that doesn’t feel normal, or very bad dizziness
• Chest pain
• Severe headache
• Muscle pain or weakness.

If you experience any of these symptoms you should speak to a doctor straight away.

Ventolin is suitable for most people but there are some other medications that it may not mix well with. A pharmacist from EU Meds will review your current medications, including any herbal remedies or supplements, to ensure that Ventolin will not interact with them.

Can I buy Ventolin online?

You can safely buy Ventolin online at EU Meds. You will first need to have an online consultation with a pharmacist independent prescriber before your order will be supplied. The online consultation will ensure that Ventolin is the right medication for your medical condition.

Do I need a prescription for Ventolin?

Yes, in order to purchase Ventolin you will need a valid prescription. Please note, all requests for supply of prescription medications are subject to an online clinical consultation and the decision to prescribe will be made by a doctor.