Ventolin Diskus

The active ingredient in the Ventolin Diskus inhaler is albuterol, which is also known as salbutamol sulfate. This salbutamol inhaler is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA), which relaxes the smooth muscle in the lungs to open up the airways and help you breathe easier. It is indicated for adults and children over 4 years old for treating asthma symptoms, COPD, and exercise-induced bronchospasm.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Ventolin Diskus. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Ventolin Diskus:

1. If you are also taking an inhaled corticosteroid, use this inhaler first, wait a few minutes, then use your bronchodilator.

2. Open the Diskus by pushing your thumb against the thumb grip as far as it will go.

3. Hold the inhaler with the mouthpiece towards you, then slide the lever away from you until it clicks.

4. Breathe out away from the inhaler.

5. Place your lips around the mouthpiece and breathe in steadily and deeply through your mouth.

6. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly away from the inhaler.

7. To close, slide the thumb grip back towards you.

8. Watch the dose counter, which will turn red when there are 5 doses left.

The most common side effects of Ventolin Diskus include:

• Sore throat, throat irritation, runny nose.
• Sinus headache.
• Chest pain.
• Upset stomach.
• Shakiness or nervousness.
• Headache, dizziness, or insomnia.
• High blood pressure.
• Back pain.
• Urinary tract infection.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Ventolin Diskus. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Heart problems may present as heart palpitations or high blood pressure.
• Hypersensitivity or allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat, anaphylaxis), which can be life-threatening.
• Low potassium levels.
• Sudden paradoxical bronchospasm (shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain or tightness, cough).

These are not all of the possible side effects of Ventolin Diskus. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Ventolin Diskus, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Heart problems such as coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmia, and hypertension.
• Convulsive disorders such as epilepsy.
• Hyperthyroidism.
• Diabetes mellitus (Type 2 diabetes).

A history of hypersensitivity reactions to albuterol, milk proteins, or lactose.

This inhaler works very quickly, within 10-15 minutes.

When Ventolin Diskus is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Beta-blockers like atenolol and propranolol can prevent Ventolin Diskus from working and cause severe bronchospasm.
• Other bronchodilator asthma medications, such as levalbuterol.
• Non-potassium-sparing diuretics, when combined with Ventolin Diskus, can worsen/ cause severe cardiovascular effects or a reduction in your potassium levels (hypokalemia).
• Digoxin, when combined with Ventolin Diskus, can lead to lower blood levels of digoxin.
• Antidepressants such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, as there may be additive cardiovascular effects when combined with Ventolin Diskus.

Each actuation of the dry powder inhaler delivers 200 mcg of albuterol (90 mcg of salbutamol base) per blister.

This inhaler should be stored at room temperature, in a cool, dry place, and out of the reach of children or pets.

This inhaler is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

No, there is no generic version available.

If your breathing worsens or salbutamol does not seem to be working for you, contact your physician. If you find yourself using this inhaler more than usual, let your doctor know, as this may mean you require a different treatment plan.

Salbutamol is considered safe in pregnancy, with no increased risk of harm to a growing fetus. Further, uncontrolled asthma is associated with higher-risk pregnancies, and salbutamol is the preferred bronchodilator for treating asthma in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

When used in usual doses, salbutamol is considered safe for breastfeeding, as it is inhaled and does not reach significant levels in the blood. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.