Ventolin Nebules (albuterol, also known as salbuterol) are a bronchodilator in fluid for use in a nebulizer. The medication is used in patients aged 4 years and up to prevent and/or treat asthma, COPD, and other ailments which cause restricted breathing.

The medication in Ventolin Nebules, albuterol, is perhaps among the most widely-used asthma treatment in the world, particularly now that the USA has banned Primatene Mist, an over-the-counter, epinephrine (adrenaline) based asthma treatment. Most patients who once relied on Primatene Mist were forced onto albuterol around the same time that albuterol---like most inhalers---were switched to the HFA propellant. Many asthma patients, forced onto HFA inhalers, found the medication simply didn't work. However, many will find that Ventolin Nebules do work where inhalers don't.

One will, of course, need a nebulizer machine to utilize Ventolin Nebules. These can range from around twenty dollars for inexpensive handheld versions to hundreds of dollars for large, professional machines. Handheld versions typically use batteries, while other versions rely on being plugged in to electricity.

Breathing Easier with Ventolin Nebules

Each package of Ventolin Nebules contains several groups of five ampules wrapped in foil packaging. Ampules should be used within three months after removing the foil wrapping. The strength of the albuterol in each package varies; if not determined by a doctor, patients should opt for the lowest possible dose until effects are known, which is 2.5 mg for patients age 12 and up. Younger patients may find 1.25 mg more suitable. Dosage strength goes up to 4 mg.

Ventolin Nebules can be used to both prevent or stop an ongoing attack. Patients who have severe breathing ailments may be prescribed another product, usually an inhaler, to administer steroids or some other medication to further prevent attacks. Patients who have a lightweight condition may rely entirely on Ventolin Nebules for relief.

Using the medication takes a bit of practice, as the amount used and the exact technique depends on the type of nebulizer being used as well as patient response. Basically, patients will want to put in either a whole ampule or just enough for a few puffs, depending on the machine and the severity of the attack.

Breathing should be considerably improved within 5 to 10 minutes of administration. If symptoms do not improve, or worsen, emergency medical attention should be sought. In a pinch, if rapid medical treatment is not available, epinephrine---such as an EpiPen---should help alleviate symptoms for a while, buying time until medical attention can be reached.

One thing patients should not do is use more than an entire ampule in 4 hours; doing so can lead to overdose, which may not be apparent until the medication is already taken. Overdose signs include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Significant muscle tremor
• Significant increase in rate of breathing

The fluid in Ventolin Nebules should be clear and free of particulates; discard if not. Once the foil wrapping around the ampules is opened, take care to keep them out of direct sunlight.

Potential Adverse Effects

The more common side effects of Ventolin Nebules are typically mild, including:

• Headache
• Mild dizziness
• Tremor
• Dry mouth, dry cough
• Mild throat irritation
• Mild flu-like symptoms

The above symptoms are not cause for concern unless severe enough to be disruptive, at which point a doctor should be consulted.

Ventolin Nebules should also be used with extreme caution in those who appear to have had an allergic reaction to albuterol. It's possible the allergic reaction was due to CFC or HFA propellants; this is likely if the reaction was only to inhalers produced since around 2012, but not before. If experiencing the reaction to both older and newer inhalers, the reaction is likely due to the albuterol itself.

Albuterol and non-selective beta-blocking drugs, such as propranolol, should not be used together. Otherwise there are no known interactions.

The effects of Ventolin Nebules on unborn or nursing babies has not been studied. Women should use only as necessary if pregnant or breastfeeding.