What is Ventolin?
Ventolin represents a bronchodilator drug with the main active substance of salbutamol sulphate; produced in the form of tablets and syrup. Ventolin inhalation options are also available: the preparation designed in the form of aerosol (the drug in plastic vials containing saline solution for inhalation).
Ventolin pharmacological action
The drug has a therapeutic effect on the adrenergic receptors of bronchial smooth muscle, causing pronounced bronchodilatory effect and thus it practically doesn’t affect myocardial adrenergic receptors. The pharmacological action pf Ventolin lasts for four hours after ingestion. Salbutamol inhibits the early and late bronchial reactivity, reduces the resistance in the airways and prevents or relieves spasms in the bronchial tubes. In addition, the drug helps to increase lung capacity and provides mucociliary clearance; it also activates the function of ciliated epithelium and stimulates mucus secretion.
After inhalation from 10% to 20% of the dose is supplied in the lower respiratory tract, lung tissue and absorbed without being metabolized in the lungs flows into the bloodstream. A certain amount of drug retained in the inhaler. The remainder of the dosage is deposited in the oropharynx, further absorbtion from the gastrointestinal tract takes place. Once the process of absorption into the systemic circulation salbutamol is complete, an extensive metabolism in the the liver takes place to form the phenolic sulphate.
Ventolin indications for use
Ventolin is typically prescribed in bronchial asthma, including the cases when a relief of asthma attacks that occur during exacerbation and prevent attacks of bronchospasm caused by allergens or exercise is required. According to the instructions, Ventolin is also appointed as one of the components of a comprehensive asthma maintenance and the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, accompanied by reversible airway obstruction and chronic bronchitis.
Ventolin administration
Tablets for inhalation in the form of aerosols are recommended to be used no more than four times per day. The dose for adults (including the elderly) and children in relieving bronchospasm equals 100 – 200 mg on a daily basis, which corresponds to one or two inhalations.
To prevent bronchospasm attacks the inhalation of 200 mg 10 – 15 minutes after exposure to a provoking factor attack regime is typically prescribed. In long-term maintenance therapy, the optimal dosage equals 200 mcg (two puffs) 4 times each 4 hours.
Ventolin may be required to be utilized under the supervision of specialists using the inhaler if necessary. The initial dose for children and adults equals 2.5 mg. If necessary, it can be doubled, and in cases of severe upper airway obstruction Ventolin dose for adults may be increased under strict medical control to 40 mg per day.
Ventolin precautions
According to the instructions Ventolin is not recommended for use in case of hypersensitivity to any ingredients. The infants under 2 years must avoid ventolin treatment; the women on pregnancy or lactation periods can be assigned only under strict medical indications.
Ventolin must be cautiously in those who have already received other sympathomimetic remedies in high doses, as well as in thyrotoxicosis. The preparation should neither be used in monotherapy nor as a major component of complex asthma therapy. The application of salbutamol in very high doses may contribute to the development of side effects, so adjusting the frequency of intakes as well as the dosage itself can be carried out by the treating doctor only.