Generic Name: Albuterol

Use

Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) is used to treat people with asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Generic Ventolin (Albuterol) relaxes the smooth muscle in the lung and dilates airways to improve breathing. The inhaler enables the drug to reach deep into the lungs for maximum benefit.

Dosage

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may come with an instruction leaflet. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have. Before using, be sure that the canister is properly inserted into the inhaler unit and shake well. Exhale slowly and deeply. Unless your doctor has told you otherwise, position the mouthpiece between your lips and try to rest your tongue flat. Your doctor may have told you to hold the inhaler 1 or 2 inches (2 or 3 centimetres) away from your open mouth or may have instructed you to use a special spacing device. As you start to take a slow deep breath, press the canister and mouthpiece together at exactly the same time to administer a dose of this medicine. Continue inhaling slowly and deeply and hold your breath for as long as comfortable, then exhale slowly through pursed lips or through your nose. If more than 1 inhalation is to be used, wait a few minutes and repeat the above process. Keep the spray away from your eyes.

Side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include fast heartbeat, nervousness, tremors, headaches, difficulty sleeping, or nausea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience rashes, hives, itching, wheezing, or increased difficulty breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Precautions

If after using this medicine you do not feel relief, see your doctor immediately. Do not use if you have a history of hypersensitivity to any of its components. Do not use Beta Blockers in conjuction with this medication. Only use during pregnancy if the benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the foetus.