Ventolin (the brand name for the scientific drug Salbutamol) belongs to a class of medications called bronchodilators and helps open the airways to facilitate breathing.
Who should receive bronchodilator treatment?
These medications are used to relieve symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
What do you need to know about Ventolin?
If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, you should inform your doctor before taking your medication:
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Are you pregnant?
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Are you breastfeeding?
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Have you been told that you are allergic to Salbutamol or Terbutaline?
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Have you been treated for thyroid disease?
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Do you take medication for high blood pressure or heart problems?
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Do you have diabetes?
How does your medication work?
Salbutamol relaxes the muscles in the walls of the small airways in the lungs. This helps open the airways and also helps relieve chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing so you can breathe more easily.
Possible side effects
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Tell your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur: fast heartbeat and muscle cramps/weakness.
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Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but serious side effects occur: chest pain, irregular heartbeat.
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A serious allergic reaction is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe nausea, and breathing problems.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose according to directions. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I take an overdose of this medication?
Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include: angina or chest pain, irregular heartbeat or palpitations, seizures, tremor, weakness, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
