Ventolin is a bronchodilator medication used in conditions that cause bronchospasm. Ventolin 2mg helps dilate the bronchi and improve airflow to the lungs. Below is detailed information about its uses.
1. What is Ventolin 2mg?
Ventolin contains the active ingredient Salbutamol, formulated as an oral solution of 2 mg/5 ml.
Salbutamol is a β-adrenergic receptor agonist that selectively acts on bronchial smooth muscle receptors with minimal or no effect on cardiac receptors at therapeutic doses. Due to its selective action on the bronchi and lack of cardiovascular effects, Ventolin oral solution is suitable for treating bronchospasm in patients with concurrent heart disease or hypertension.
Salbutamol also has the activity to prevent histamine release caused by allergen exposure and substances formed during the slow-reacting phase of anaphylaxis. As a result, it can reduce Type I hypersensitivity reactions, considered the initial trigger of allergic asthma syndrome.
2. Uses of Ventolin 2mg
Ventolin 2mg is indicated for
- Relieving bronchospasm in all types of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
- Bronchospasm in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that is still reversible.
Contraindications:
Ventolin 2mg is contraindicated in the following cases
- Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any ingredient of the medication.
- Intravenous Ventolin should not be used to prevent premature labor or treat threatened miscarriage.
3. How to Use and Dosage of Ventolin 2mg
Usage: Take the solution orally as prescribed.
Dosage:
- Adults: The usual effective dose is 10 ml of solution (equivalent to 4 mg of Salbutamol), taken 3 or 4 times daily. If the desired bronchodilatory effect is not achieved, the single dose can be gradually increased to 20 ml (8 mg of Salbutamol). However, some patients may achieve effective bronchodilation with 5 ml (2 mg of Salbutamol), taken 3 or 4 times daily.
- Children:
- 2–6 years old: 2.5–5 ml of solution (1–2 mg of Salbutamol), 3 or 4 times daily.
- 6–12 years old: 5 ml of solution (2 mg of Salbutamol), 3 or 4 times daily.
- Over 12 years old: 5–10 ml of solution (2–4 mg of Salbutamol), 3 or 4 times daily.
- For elderly patients, treatment should begin with 5 ml of solution (2 mg of Salbutamol), 3 or 4 times daily, with dosage adjustments based on response and tolerance.
Missed Dose and Overdose:
- Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember within 1–2 hours. If it’s close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
- Overdose: Treat based on clinical symptoms and monitor the patient.
4. Side Effects of Ventolin 2mg
Possible side effects of Ventolin 2mg include:
- Rare: Hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which can be severe as a result of beta-2 agonist treatment. Cardiac arrhythmias (including atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, and extrasystole), and peripheral vasodilation.
- Common: Tremors, headaches, tachycardia, palpitations, and muscle cramps.
Inform your doctor immediately if you experience any adverse reactions while taking this medication.
5. Precautions When Using Ventolin 2mg
Bronchodilator use for managing asthma symptoms should follow a stepwise program, with regular clinical monitoring and lung function tests. Frequent use of inhaled bronchodilators may indicate poor asthma control, requiring increased dosage or corticosteroid therapy. Patients considered at high risk of severe asthma attacks can perform daily peak flow monitoring.
Do not increase dosage or frequency without medical advice, even if response diminishes or duration of effect shortens.
Special Populations
- Patients with severe heart disease such as ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, or severe heart failure. By activating the sympathetic nervous system, potential cardiovascular side effects could emerge. Rare reports of ischemic heart disease have been associated with Salbutamol use
- Seek medical advice immediately if chest pain or worsening heart disease symptoms occur.
- Ventolin should be used with caution in patients with thyroid toxicity.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Consider the use of medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding to ensure the baby’s health.
When using medication regularly or in patients taking multiple medications, blood potassium and blood sugar levels should be monitored. Severe hypokalemia has been reported in patients using beta-2 agonists. There have also been reports of hyperglycemia leading to ketoacidosis in diabetic patients, with a higher risk when used concurrently with corticosteroids.
Drug Interactions: Ventolin should generally not be prescribed with non-selective beta-blockers such as propranolol, as it may increase side effects or reduce therapeutic efficacy.
Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children and do not use expired or damaged medication.
The above information provides details on the uses, dosage, and precautions for Ventolin 2mg/5 ml. This medication should only be used under the supervision of a doctor to avoid potential health risks.
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.
