Salbutamol Inhaler

Common Brand Names

Ventolin, Asthalin

Overview

Salbutamol is used to relieve symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as coughing, wheezing and feeling breathless. It works by relaxing the muscles of the airways into the lungs, which makes it easier to breathe.

Salbutamol is most commonly used as an inhaler (puffer), which is the most effective and preferred treatment for asthma. Salbutamol inhalers are typically blue and are suitable for most people with asthma. 

While salbutamol can also be given as tablets, capsules, or syrup, these forms are generally not recommended for asthma because they are less effective and may have more side effects. These alternatives are only used for people who cannot use an inhaler properly.

It can also be given using a nebuliser, but this is usually only if you have severe asthma or COPD. A nebuliser is a machine that helps you breathe in your medicine as a mist, using a mask or a mouthpiece. You can use a nebuliser in hospital or you may be given one to manage your condition at home.

This medicine is only available on prescription in some countries.

Important Facts

• Salbutamol inhalers are safe and effective with few side effects if you use them as advised by your doctor, pharmacist or nurse.
• Salbutamol inhalers are called "reliever" inhalers because they give you quick relief from breathing problems when you need it. You'll usually be given another "preventer" inhaler to help stop (prevent) symptoms and you will use this every day.
• If you need to use your salbutamol inhaler more than 3 times a week, it could be a sign that your condition is not well controlled. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse.

• Salbutamol is safe to use in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
  

Types of Inhalers and How to Use Them

There are two main types of salbutamol inhalers:

1. Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDI)
2. Dry Powder Inhalers (DPI)

Some inhalers may also contain other medicines, such as steroids, to reduce inflammation in the lungs. Using an inhaler correctly is very important to ensure the medicine reaches your lungs effectively.

How to Tell Which Inhaler You Have

1. Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI):

• Appearance: Small spray canister in a plastic holder.
• How it works: Press the inhaler to release a spray (mist) of medicine.
• Key feature: You must press the inhaler and breathe in at the same time.
• Spacer: Often used with a spacer for better medicine delivery, especially for children or people who struggle with coordination.

2. Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI):

• Appearance: Usually disk-shaped or capsule-based device.
• How it works: You inhale dry powder directly into your lungs.
• Key feature: Requires a strong, quick, and deep breath to get the medicine into your lungs.
• Tip: Do not shake a DPI; it doesn’t use a spray.

How to Use an MDI (Metered-Dose Inhaler)

1. Shake the inhaler well.
2. Remove the cap and breathe out gently away from the inhaler.
3. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and seal your lips around it.
4. Press the inhaler once to release the spray while breathing in slowly and steadily.
5. Hold your breath for 10 seconds (or as long as comfortable), then breathe out gently.
6. If you need a second puff:
   • Wait 30–60 seconds.
   • Shake the inhaler again and repeat the steps.

   ---

Using a Spacer with an MDI

A spacer is a tube that attaches to an MDI to help deliver the medicine more effectively.

Steps to Use a Spacer:

1. Get ready: Shake the inhaler, remove the cap, and attach it to the spacer.
2. Breathe out gently: Breathe out away from the spacer until your lungs feel empty.
3. Seal your lips: Put the mouthpiece of the spacer in your mouth and close your lips tightly around it.
4. Press and breathe in: Press the inhaler once to release the medicine into the spacer. Breathe in slowly and steadily until your lungs feel full.
5. Hold your breath: Remove the spacer and hold your breath for 10 seconds (or as long as comfortable).
6. Breathe out gently: Breathe out slowly away from the spacer.
7. Repeat if needed: Wait 30–60 seconds, shake the inhaler, and repeat the steps for a second puff.
8. Finish up: Remove the inhaler, and put the caps back on the inhaler and spacer.

How to Use a DPI (Dry Powder Inhaler)

1. Open the inhaler and load a dose (if required).
2. Breathe out fully away from the inhaler (to avoid blowing out the powder).
3. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth, seal your lips around it, and breathe in quickly and deeply.
4. Hold your breath for 10 seconds (or as long as comfortable), then breathe out slowly.

Important Notes:

• These instructions are general guidelines. Different inhalers may have slight variations.
• Always read the instructions provided with your inhaler.
• If you’re unsure how to use your inhaler, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a demonstration.