VENTOLIN HFA (SALBUTAMOL)

Salbutamol is a selective beta2-adrenoceptor agonist. At therapeutic doses, it acts on the beta2-adrenoceptors of bronchial muscle providing short-acting (4 to 6-hour) bronchodilation in reversible airway obstruction.

Inhaler: Each Salbutamol (Ventolin) Inhaler is a pressurized metered-dose inhaler which delivers 100 micrograms of salbutamol (as sulphate) per actuation, into the mouthpiece of a specially designed actuator. The inhaler also contains the CFC-free propellant HFA 134a. Each canister contains at least 200 actuation.

Nebules: Salbutamol (Ventolin Nebules) Solution for Inhalation 1 mg/mL is in a plastic ampoule containing a concentration of salbutamol of 0.1% (1 mg salbutamol, as the sulphate, in 1 mL). Each Salbutamol (Ventolin Nebules) Solution for Inhalation contains 2.5 mL of solution equivalent to 2.5 mg salbutamol.

The usual dose of salbutamol inhaler is 1 or 2 puffs up to 4 times a day when needed for shortness of breath or wheezing. If you do not get relief from your symptoms after using the salbutamol inhaler, you must contact your doctor for advice straightaway or call 111.

Asthma action plan: you will receive a written asthma action plan from your asthma nurse or doctor which will tell you how many puffs to use for each dose and the maximum number of puffs you should use in 24 hours. Read more about asthma action plans for adults and children.

Before exercise: if you are using salbutamol to prevent asthma brought on by exercise, the usual dose is 2 puffs inhaled 15 to 30 minutes before exercise.

Tips

• Keep your inhaler with you at all times: make sure you have your inhaler with you at all times so you know where it is when you need it and make sure you have enough salbutamol to last through weekends and holidays.
• Storage: you can carry your inhaler in your pocket but it needs to be stored below 25ºC, so don’t keep it in your car during summer.