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Printable Version Ventolin Inhaler

Active Ingredients: Albuterol
Other Names: Proventil Inhaler
Drug Class: Inhaled Beta-2 Agonists
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:
Pronunciation:

What is/are Ventolin Inhaler?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Ventolin Inhaler? (Back to top)
ALBUTEROL is a bronchodilator. It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breathe. This medicine is used to treat and to prevent bronchospasm. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

  • diabetes
  • heart disease or irregular heartbeat
  • high blood pressure
  • pheochromocytoma
  • seizures
  • thyroid disease
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to albuterol, levalbuterol, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is for inhalation through the mouth. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use more often than directed. Make sure that you are using your inhaler correctly. Ask you doctor or health care provider if you have any questions.

Use this medicine before you use any other inhaler. Wait 5 minutes or more before between using different inhalers.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)

  • anti-infectives like chloroquine and pentamidine
  • caffeine
  • cisapride
  • diuretics
  • medicines for colds
  • medicines for depression or for emotional or psychotic conditions
  • medicines for weight loss including some herbal products
  • methadone
  • some antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, levofloxacin, and linezolid
  • some heart medicines
  • steroid hormones like dexamethasone, cortisone, hydrocortisone
  • theophylline
  • thyroid hormones

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • breathing problems
  • chest pain
  • feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
  • high blood pressure
  • irregular heartbeat
  • fever
  • muscle cramps or weakness
  • pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet
  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • cough
  • difficulty sleeping
  • headache
  • nervousness or trembling
  • stomach upset
  • stuffy or runny nose
  • throat irritation
  • unusual taste

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve. Do not use extra albuterol. If your asthma or bronchitis gets worse while you are using this medicine, call your doctor right away.

If your mouth gets dry try chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy. Drink water as directed.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). The contents are under pressure and may burst when exposed to heat or flame. Do not freeze. This medicine does not work as well if it is too cold. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Some inhalers may need to be thrown away before the expiration date after opening. Check the instructions that come with your medicine to see how long to keep your inhaler after opening.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:October 18, 2007

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Ventolin Inhaler

 Compare Ventolin Inhaler to similar drugs

  Learn how Ventolin Inhaler is/are used to treat:
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Asthma

      Learn more about using Inhalers

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Ventolin Inhaler, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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