Ventolin Syrup

(Albuterol (Salbutamol) Sulfate)

The active ingredient in Ventolin Syrup is salbutamol sulfate, also known as albuterol. It is considered a short-acting beta-adrenergic agonist (SABA) or bronchodilator. Albuterol 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 18 months old for treating and preventing bronchospasm due to asthma or COPD, including 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 Syrup. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Ventolin Syrup:

1. Always use a graduated syringe or dose cup to measure out your dose (not a kitchen tablespoon).

2. The sugar-free formulation can be diluted with purified water, but the mixture should be protected from light and used within 28 days. Do not mix Ventolin Syrup with anything else.

3. The sugar-containing syrup can be diluted with unpreserved syrup BP, and the mixture should be protected from light and used within 14 days. Do not mix the sugar-containing syrup with anything else.

4. The sugar-containing formulation may elevate blood sugar. If you are diabetic, you may need to check your blood sugar more frequently.

5. Ensure you do not use the syrup past the listed expiry date.

The most common side effects of Ventolin Syrup include:

• Tremor.
• Hyperactivity.
• Dry mouth.
• Chest pain.
• Shakiness or nervousness.
• Headache.
• Lightheadedness.
• High blood pressure.
• Muscle cramps.
• Hypokalemia (low potassium).

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

• Irregular heartbeat/ heart palpitations (tachycardia), weakness, or worsening of an existing heart condition.
• Hypersensitivity or allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, anaphylaxis), which can be life-threatening.
• Sudden paradoxical bronchospasm (difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest pain or tightness, cough).
• Changes in blood potassium levels.
• Signs/ symptoms of lactic acidosis: rapid breathing, shortness of breath, feeling cold, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Ventolin Syrup. 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 Syrup, 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.
• Thyroid problems.
• Diabetes mellitus (Type 2 diabetes).

A history of hypersensitivity to albuterol, or any inactive ingredients in Ventolin Syrup: Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid Monohydrate, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose 2910, Sodium Benzoate, Saccharin Sodium, Orange Flavour, or Sodium Chloride.

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

When Ventolin Syrup 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 Syrup from working and cause severe bronchospasm.
• Non-potassium-sparing diuretics, when combined with Ventolin Syrup, can worsen/ cause severe cardiovascular effects or a reduction in your potassium levels (hypokalemia).
• Corticosteroids, including prednisone, may increase the risk of ketoacidosis in diabetic patients.
• Digoxin, when combined with Ventolin Syrup, 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 Syrup.

Brand-name Ventolin Syrup contains 2mg of albuterol for each 5mL of syrup.

The syrup should be kept at room temperature and shielded from moisture, heat, or sunlight. Keep away from the reach of children or pets.

The syrup is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

Yes, there are generic versions available.

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

The decision to use Ventolin Syrup during pregnancy requires assessment of risk vs benefit, as the ingredients do cross the placenta. 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.

It is not known whether this medication is found in breast milk. 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.