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Albuterol Inhaler

 

Albuterol Inhaler Aerosol (generic Ventolin) Review

brand names: Ventolin, Proventil
generic names: Albuterol, Salbutamol

How does it work?

Ventolin solution for infusion contains the active ingredient salbutamol, which is a type of medicine known as a short-acting beta 2 agonist. (NB. Salbutamol is also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine.)

Ventolin infusion is given as a drip into a vein (intravenous infusion) to treat two very different conditions. Firstly, salbutamol infusion may be given in hospital to treat severe narrowing of the airways that is causing difficulty breathing (bronchospasm). This might be due to a severe asthma attack, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, eg emphysema and chronic bronchitis), or a severe allergic reaction. Secondly, salbutamol infusion can be used to help stop premature labour.

Salbutamol works by acting on receptors called beta 2 receptors. These are found in the lungs and the uterus (womb).

When salbutamol stimulates the beta 2 receptors in the lungs, it causes the muscles in the airways to relax. This allows the airways to open and so makes it easier to breathe.

When salbutamol stimulates the beta 2 receptors in the uterus, it causes the muscles in the walls of the uterus to relax. This can stop the contractions associated with premature labour. Salbutamol infusion can be used to stop labour that starts between 24 and 33 weeks gestation. It usually delays delivery by at least 48 hours. This can give sufficient time to treat the mother with corticosteroids, or take other measures to improve the outcome for mother and baby, including moving the mother to a hospital with a neonatal intensive care unit.

Special warnings about Ventolin (Albuterol) HFA

When taking albuterol inhalation aerosol, you should not use other inhaled medications before checking with your doctor.

You may have an immediate, serious allergic reaction to the first dose of albuterol, causing symptoms such as lips, throat, and swelling of the mouth, rash, hives, and tongue. The drug has been known to cause life-threatening bronchial spasms, especially with the first dose from a new canister or vial. There have also been rare reports of skin reddening and peeling in children taking albuterol syrup.

Make sure the doctor is aware of it if you have a heart condition, overactive thyroid gland, abnormal heartbeat, high blood pressure, seizure disorder, or diabetes. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any change in heartbeat or pulse while taking Ventolin (Albuterol) HFA.

Do not exceed your doctor's recommended dose of albuterol. If you need more than usual, check with your doctor. Your asthma may be getting unstable, and you may need another medication. Do not, however, change your medication without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.

Why is Proventil prescribed?

Drugs containing albuterol are prescribed for the prevention and relief of bronchial spasms that narrow the airway. This especially applies to the treatment of asthma. Some brands of this medication are also used for the prevention of bronchial spasm due to exercise.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

• This medicine passes into breast milk in small amounts. The effect of this on the breastfed baby is unknown, therefore this medicine should be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers. Discuss with your doctor.
  
  
• This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
  
  

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has additional information about albuterol written for health professionals that you may read.

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