Ventolin HFA

Generic Name: Albuterol

  • What is this medication and its most common uses?

    Ventolin HFA is a medicine used to prevent and treat airway narrowing associated with certain breathing problems (such as asthma). Ventolin HFA is also used to prevent wheezing caused by exercise.


    How does this medication work?

    Ventolin HFA works by relaxing the muscles in your airways.


    What: Ventolin HFA quickly opens your airways to help you breath during an asthma attack. It may also help you breathe better while exercising.

    When: Ventolin HFA may start working within minutes, and symptom relief may last up to 6 hours.

    How do I know it is working?

    You may feel an improvement in your breathing once you begin using Ventolin HFA. Your healthcare provider may perform tests to check your lung function and ask you questions to assess how well your symptoms are controlled.

  • What are the possible side effects of this medication?


    More common side effects may include: throat irritation, respiratory infections, upper respiratory inflammation, cough, muscle pain.

    Less common side effects may include:


    Heart problems, including faster heart rate and higher blood pressure.


  • Who should not take this medication?

    Do not use Ventolin HFA if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.


    Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Ventolin HFA. Also, talk to your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have heart or thyroid problems; high blood pressure; seizures; diabetes; or low blood potassium levels.

  • What is the usual dosage?


    Prevention or Treatment of Airway Narrowing


    Prevention of Exercise-Induced Wheezing


  • How should I take this medication?


    Throw away Ventolin HFA 12 months after you remove it from the foil overwrap pouch or when the dose indicator reads "000," whichever comes first.

    Please review the instructions that came with your prescription on how to properly use Ventolin HFA.

  • What should I avoid while taking this medication?

    Do not spray Ventolin HFA into your eyes.


    If Ventolin HFA is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your healthcare provider before combining Ventolin HFA with the following: blood pressure/heart medications known as beta-blockers (such as propranolol), certain antidepressants (such as nortriptyline or phenelzine), digoxin, or water pills (such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide).


    The effects of Ventolin HFA during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Do not breastfeed while you are using Ventolin HFA. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.



  • How should I store this medication?

    Store at room temperature, with the mouthpiece down. Do not store near heat or an open flame.

Starting a GERD or Ulcer Drug?

Sign Up

Meet the Pharmacists

I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!

Check out my latest post on cholesterol drugs.

Ventolin HFA Related Drugs

Ventolin HFA Related Conditions