Ventolin, Salbutamol and Inhalers

Do you have problems breathing? Perhaps you have a persistent cough. You may have seen people use an inhaler before, and you may have wondered if this type of medication could potentially help you. What is the best medicine to help your symptoms? Below we have answers to your questions. There are different types of inhalers, but they are often referred to by their colour. The blue inhaler is called Ventolin. This inhaler helps millions of people who have problems breathing. Its generic name is Salbutamol. It comes as a liquid, and also as an inhaler.

Key Takeaways

Ventolin (Salbutamol) is a Common Inhaler for Asthma and Breathing Issues

Ventolin, often called the "blue inhaler," contains Salbutamol, a medicine that relaxes airways and provides quick relief for asthma symptoms and breathing issues. It can help with symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Use Ventolin Properly for Best Results

To get the most from a Ventolin inhaler, breathe out fully before using it and then inhale deeply while pressing the inhaler. Following the correct steps ensures that the medicine reaches your lungs effectively.

Side Effects are Usually Mild but Be Aware of Serious Symptoms

While side effects like shakiness or headaches can occur, they’re generally mild and temporary. However, contact your doctor if you experience more severe symptoms, such as intense muscle pain or chest pain with a fast heartbeat.

Google Web Story: Ventolin, Salbutamol and Inhalers Explained

This helpful UK Meds Google Web Story explains Ventolin inhalers, the active ingredient Salbutamol and common questions that users ask about the asthma treatment:

Do I have asthma?

The symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing. Asthma can also cause a whistling or wheezing sound as you breathe, this symptom is more common in children. To confirm whether you have asthma, you will want to get a diagnosis from a professional healthcare provider. If you are found to have asthma, Ventolin may be the prescribed treatment you receive.

What is Ventolin used for?

Ventolin is a bronchodilator that is used to treat or prevent bronchospasms. Bronchospasm is a medical way of referring to the tightening of the muscles that line the airways of your lungs. Symptoms of bronchospasm include chest pain, tightness of the chest, and feeling constriction in the chest and back. Bronchospasm makes it very difficult for your body to get enough air into the lungs. Ventolin is used to treat bronchospasms.

How many puffs of Ventolin is safe?

The usual way in which an inhaler is used is by administering one to two puffs as and when you need them, but, you should do no more than a maximum of four puffs in 24 hours. The maximum number of puffs is four, regardless of whether you are taking one or two puffs per usage. Your doctor may have different instructions, and this can be entirely down to your own situation.

How long does it take Ventolin to work?

The benefits of using an inhaler are nearly instant. The dose should typically last for around five hours. After 5 to 15 minutes, you should begin to breathe with far greater ease. If the inhaler does not work within this timeframe, make sure that you tell your doctor.

What is the difference between Ventolin and Salbutamol?

Ventolin and Salbutamol are essentially the same medicine. A Ventolin inhaler is an asthma medication that is designed to give a dose of 100 micrograms of Salbutamol. Any method or product used that delivers 100 micrograms of Salbutamol per dose is technically the same as Ventolin. While inhalers may differ in appearance, they all typically work the same way.

Can I use Ventolin for a cough?

Asthma inhalers, such as Ventolin, are designed to soothe airways. This suppresses the need to cough. Ventolin, the brand name of generic Salbutamol, is often prescribed as medication for a persistent cough. If you have a cough that will not go away, you may wish to ask your doctor if Ventolin will help.

What does Ventolin syrup treat?

Ventolin is often delivered through an aerosol pump directly into the lungs. This offers quick relief for those who suffer from bronchospasms. Salbutamol is also sometimes given in tablet form, as capsules, or as a syrup for people who can't use an inhaler very well. While the method of delivery is not as effective as an inhaler can be, the liquid form of Salbutamol is much cheaper and can be effective as an expectorant. A doctor may prescribe liquid instead of an inhaler if your symptoms are not as severe and if cost is an issue.

How do I use a Ventolin inhaler?

It is easy to use a Ventolin inhaler. Before you use an inhaler, you must prime it. This will make certain that you receive the right dose when you breathe it in. To prime the inhaler, follow our instructions below.

Before the inhaler is primed:

• Take the cap off and shake it.

• Aim the inhaler away from your face and press down fully twice, releasing two sprays.

• If you have not used the inhaler in the last 5 days, repeat this process.

After the inhaler is primed:

• Stand in an upright position.

• Remove the mouthpiece and check that the inhaler is free from objects or dust particles

• Shake the inhaler 4 to 5 times, ensuring any loose objects are removed and the medicine is mixed evenly.

• Place your thumb on the base of the inhaler and index finger at the top of the canister.

• Breathe out gently and hold.

• Place the mouthpiece of the inhaler in your mouth, between your teeth. Make a tight seal around it with your lips. Do not bite.

• Breathe in with your mouth, with lips still sealed tightly around the mouthpiece. As you begin to breathe in, press the top of the canister with your finger.

• Breathe in gently and deeply.

• If you were instructed to use two sprays, repeat the above steps after 30 seconds.

• When finished, place the cap over the mouthpiece until it clicks in place.

How do you get the most out of your Ventolin inhaler?

Make sure you breathe all the way out before you use Ventolin. This creates space in your lungs to hold the air mixed with Ventolin as you use the inhaler. Breathe in deeply and slowly, as this gives your lungs the greatest exposure to the Salbutamol. You should also follow the instructions given above, as they will ensure you get the proper dose of medication.

What are the side effects of Ventolin?

While side effects are not very common, around one in 100 people may experience the following side effects when they take Salbutamol:

• A feeling of shakiness.

• Heartbeat racing (but no chest pain).

• Headaches.

• Muscle cramps.

These are not serious side effects and should get better after your body gets used to Salbutamol.

There are other side effects that rarely happen. Make sure you contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms after using Ventolin:

• Muscle pain that feels more serious than a cramp.

• Very bad dizziness or passing out.

• Chest pain that accompanies a fast heartbeat.

• A very bad headache.

Can I get Ventolin Inhalers on subscription?

Yes! You can purchase the Ventolin inhalers that you need on a subscription from UK Meds. You can purchase either the Accuhaler or the Evohaler in different strengths, quantities, and delivery frequencies saving you time, money, and effort.

Where can I buy Ventolin inhalers online?

You can buy Ventolin online here at UK Meds. We have the "blue inhaler", also known as the Ventolin Evohaler. It delivers 100mg of Salbutamol per dose. They are currently available for as little as £11.98* each, up to 3 for £29.97*. Other inhalers are also available to purchase, including Luforbec Inhalers and Fostair Inhalers.

*Please note that all prices mentioned in this article are subject to change and were correct at the time of writing.

Google Web Story: UK Meds Complete Guide To A Salbutamol Inhaler

UK Meds created this helpful Google Web Story for you to use as a complete guide to salbutamol inhalers on the go: