PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

• Active ingredient: Salbutamol sulphate (also called albuterol in some countries)
• Common strength:
• 100 micrograms per puff
• Class: Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) bronchodilator
• Propellant: HFA (hydrofluoroalkane) in metered-dose inhalers

Indication / Use

Used for:

• Asthma attacks (rescue inhaler)
• Wheezing and shortness of breath
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm

It works by relaxing airway muscles and opening the airways quickly. Effects usually begin within minutes and last about 4–6 hours.

Direction of Use

Typical use:

• 1–2 puffs when needed for wheezing or breathlessness
• May also be used:
• 15–30 minutes before exercise to prevent exercise-induced asthma
• Shake inhaler before use
• Inhale slowly while pressing the canister
• Hold breath for about 10 seconds after inhalation
• Spacer devices may improve delivery, especially in children

Side Effects

Common:

• Trembling/shaky hands
• Fast heartbeat (palpitations)
• Nervousness
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Feeling “wired” or jittery

Less common:

• Dizziness
• Throat irritation
• Hoarseness
• Sleep disturbance

Serious (rare):

• Chest pain
• Severe allergic reaction
• Irregular heartbeat
• Low potassium (hypokalaemia)
• Paradoxical bronchospasm (breathing worsens after use)

Community reports commonly describe:

• “Adrenaline rush”
• Tremors
• Pounding heartbeat after several puffs

Warnings

• Overuse may indicate poorly controlled asthma
• Seek urgent medical help if:
• Inhaler stops working effectively
• Breathing worsens rapidly
• Chest tightness persists
• Use cautiously in patients with:
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Hyperthyroidism
• Diabetes
• Seizure disorders

Interactions

May interact with:

• Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) → may reduce effect or worsen asthma
• Diuretics → increase low potassium risk
• Steroids
• Theophylline
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• MAO inhibitors
• Digoxin

Caution

• Do not exceed prescribed doses
• Frequent need for Ventolin (>2 times/week regularly) may mean asthma is not well controlled
• Rinse mouth or gargle after use if throat irritation occurs
• Temporary tremor/palpitations are common, especially when starting treatment
• Keep inhaler away from heat or flames (pressurized canister)
• If inhaler use increases suddenly, seek medical review promptly