Ventolin HFA
Generic Name: Albuterol
What is Ventolin HFA?
Ventolin HFA is a fast-acting bronchodilator that helps to quickly open the airways in your lungs so you can breathe easily. It is used to treat or prevent bronchospasm (asthma) in adults and children ≥4 years old.What is the most important information I should know about Ventolin HFA?
Get medical help right away if Ventolin HFA no longer helps your symptoms. Also get medical help if your symptoms get worse or if you need to use your inhaler more often.Ventolin HFA may increase your pulse rate or blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you have any heart problems before taking Ventolin HFA.
Ventolin HFA can cause allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition and can lead to death so get emergency medical treatment right away if symptoms occur. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, chest tightness, trouble breathing, low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, rapid or weak heartbeat, anxiety, feeling of "impending doom," flushing, itching, hives, feeling warm, swelling of the throat or tongue, throat tightness, hoarse voice, or trouble swallowing.
Who should not take Ventolin HFA?
Do not take Ventolin HFA if you are allergic to albuterol or any of its ingredients.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Ventolin HFA?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Ventolin HFA. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have or had any allergies, heart problems or disease, seizures, hyperthyroidism (abnormal thyroid condition), diabetes, low levels of potassium in the blood (hypokalemia), are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, are pregnant, may be pregnant, are planning to become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or are planning to breastfeed.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Bronchospasm (Asthma)
Adults and children ≥4 years: The recommended usual dose is 2 inhalations repeated every 4-8 hours. Your doctor may prescribe 1 inhalation every 4 hours depending on your response to Ventolin HFA.
Elderly: Your doctor may prescribe a lower starting dose of Ventolin HFA.
Exercise-Induced Asthma
Adults and children ≥4 years: The recommended usual dose is 2 inhalations repeated 15-30 minutes before exercise.
Elderly: Your doctor may prescribe a lower starting dose of Ventolin HFA.
How should I take Ventolin HFA?
Take Ventolin HFA as directed by your doctor. Do not take extra doses or take more often without asking your doctor.Please review the instructions that came with your prescription on how to prepare and use your inhaler.
What should I avoid while taking Ventolin HFA?
Do not take extra doses or take more often without asking your doctor. Take Ventolin HFA as directed by your doctor.Do not use the actuator with a canister of medicine from any other inhaler. And do not use a Ventolin HFA canister with an actuator from any other inhaler.
Do not puncture. Do not use or store near heat or open flame. Never throw into the fire or incinerator.
Do not use the inhaler when the counter reads 000 because you will not receive the right amount of medicine. Do not use the inhaler after the expiration date.
Avoid spraying Ventolin HFA into eyes.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Ventolin HFA?
If Ventolin HFA is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ventolin HFA with the following: beta-blockers, digoxin, diuretics (water pill), monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants.What are the possible side effects of Ventolin HFA?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, viral lung infection, lung inflammation, shakiness, nervousness, worsening of wheezing, muscle pain, throat irritation, cough
Can I receive Ventolin HFA if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Ventolin HFA during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Ventolin HFA?
If you miss a dose of Ventolin HFA, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Ventolin HFA?
Store at room temperature with the mouthpiece down.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
