Ventolin HFA
Ventolin HFA, also called an albuterol inhalation is a medication known as a bronchodilator. It helps to relax airway muscles and helps to increase air flow into the lungs.
Why Ventolin HFA Is Prescribed
Ventolin is typically prescribed to those who have reversible obstructive airway disease or to prevent bronchospasm. It may also be prescribed to those who exercise and experience bronchospasm in an attempt to prevent it. Click Here to Read Our Blog on Asthma
Ventolin HFA (Albuterol) Discount
Risks of taking Ventolin HFA
There are side effects with Ventolin HFA that you must be aware of when taking this medication. Immediately contact your doctor or go to the emergency room if you experience any of these symptoms:
• Wheezing, difficulty breathing, or chest spasms
• Increased anxiety, tremors or extreme nervousness
• High blood pressure (symptoms: anxiety, confusion, seizure, chest pain, blurred vision, ear buzzing, headache)
• Low potassium (symptoms: increased need to urinate, dehydration, sweating, muscle weakness, limpness in the legs)
Some less serious and in the range of normal side effects of taking Ventolin:
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Dry mouth
• Sore throat
• Stuffy nose
• Dizziness
• Muscle pain
• Diarrhea
If you experience any symptoms that are or are not mentioned here that concern you, consult a medical professional or call 911 if a medical emergency.
How to take Ventolin (albuterol)
There are two ways in which an albuterol may be prescribed: In an inhaler or in a nebulizer. You should be sure to read the directions that come with your medications thoroughly and follow them precisely.
Follow the prescription directions for the amount and frequency that you should use albuterol. Do not use more or less than you are prescribed.
Before taking your albuterol for the first time, prime the inhaler by spraying three sprays into the air. Prime your inhaler prior to using it, especially if it has been 2 or more weeks since the last time that you utilized it.
Be sure to always carry your albuterol inhaler with you. When you are running low, fill your prescription to avoid being in a situation where you need it and do not have it.
Consider having more than one inhaler so that you can keep them in places that you frequent and could potentially not remember to bring it.
What do I need to avoid while taking Ventolin?
Use extra caution when you’re using your inhaler to not accidentally spray Ventolin into your face or eyes. If this happens, immediately flush your eyes with water and consult a medical professional to avoid any long term damages.
Will any medications interact with Ventolin HFA?
If you are on any other medications, you should advise your doctor before going on Ventolin. Here are some examples of medications which can cause interactions:
• Water Pill or Diuretic
• Lanoxin (Digoxin)
• Beta-Blockers (Trandate, Propranolol, Sotalol, Nadolol, etc.)
• Antidepressants (Doxepin, amitriptyline, nortriptyline and others)
• MAO inhibitors (furazolidone , isocarboxazid, phenelzine , and others)
• Other bronchodilators (levalbuterol , pirbuterol, terbutaline, or isoproterenol)
There are other medications that may be missing from this list. As a rule, be sure to let your doctor know of any and all medications that you have been prescribed. Consult with your doctor about whether or not Ventolin HFA (Albuterol) is the right medication for you based upon your medical history.
Click Here to Read Our Blog on Medication Safety Tips
References:
1. http://www.drugs.com/mtm/
2. Refer to Prescription drug information included with your medication.
