Ventolin is a short acting adrenergic (beta agonist) bronchodilator that relaxes the smooth muscle in the airways allowing effort free airflow in the lungs. It is chemically related to isoprenaline. Ventolin Aerosol, (Albuterol sulfate) has poor cardiac [beta 1 receptor] action compared to isoprenaline. Hence it causes less palpitation or a rise of blood pressure in therapeutic doses and hence is safer than adrenaline and isoprenaline. It is resistant to inactivation by COMT and therefore, has a longer duration of action. The action of a single inhalation lasts for about 4-6 hours. Each inhalation may improve the effectiveness of subsequent inhalation

Bronchospasm For treatment of acute episodes of bronchospasm or prevention of symptoms associated with bronchospasm, the usual dosage for adults and children is 2 inhalations repeated every 4 to 6 hours; in some patients, 1 inhalation every 4 hours may be sufficient. More frequent administration or a larger number of inhalations is not recommended. Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm The usual dosage for adults and children 4 years of age and older is 2 inhalations 15 to 30 minutes before exercise. Administration Information Each metered inhalation of Ventolin provides Salbutamol 100 mcg in inert aerosol propellant.

Priming Ventolin is essential to ensure appropriate Albuterol content in each actuation. Prime Ventolin before using for the first time, when the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks, or when the inhaler has been dropped. To prime Ventolin, release 4 sprays into the air away from the face, shaking well before each spray. Cleaning: To ensure proper dosing and to prevent actuator orifice blockage, wash the actuator with warm water and let it air-dry completely at least once a week.

Ventolin has a dose counter attached to the canister that starts at 204 and counts down each time a spray is released. When the counter reads 020, the patient should contact the pharmacist for a refill of medication or consult the physician to determine whether a prescription refill is needed. Ventolin comes in a moisture-protective foil pouch, which should be removed prior to use. Discard Ventolin when the counter reads 000 (after 200 sprays have been used) or 6 months after removal from the moisture-protective foil pouch, whichever comes first.

Various side effects of Ventolin may include bronchospasm (wheezing, chest tightness, trouble breathing), especially after starting a new canister of this medicine; chest pain and fast, pounding, or uneven heart beats; tremor, nervousness; or high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats, seizure).