Pulmonary - Critical Care Associates
of East Texas

Jeffrey M. Shea, M.D., F.C.C.P.
                              Catherine M. Martinez, M.D.

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COMMON BRAND NAME(S):  Proventil, Ventolin

USES: This drug relaxes the smooth muscle in the lungs and dilates airways to improve breathing. It is used in the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. The inhaler enables the drug to reach deep into the lungs for maximum benefit.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: Make sure you understand how to use the inhaler properly. Shake the canister well before using. Place the canister approximately 3 finger-breadths from your mouth and exhale. Depress the spray as you inhale deeply. Hold your breath for a few seconds to allow the drug to be absorbed. If more than one inhalation is prescribed, wait at least one full minute between inhalations.

Rinse your mouth after using to help prevent dryness and relieve throat irritation.

Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not use it more frequently without your doctor's approval. Excessive use may result in decreased efficacy and increased side effects. If you find yourself using this more than usual, contact your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dry mouth, irritated throat, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, loss of appetite, altered taste sensation, restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, trembling, and sweating may occur but should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor.

To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute.

Inform your doctor if you experience chest pain, pounding heartbeat or breathing difficulties while taking this medication.

In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history especially of an overactive thyroid, heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, diabetes and of any drug allergies.

If symptoms do not improve or if they worsen after using this medication, call your doctor immediately.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risk and benefits with your doctor.

This drug may be excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you use, including "beta-blockers" such as propranolol, labetolol and timolol. Also mention any medications to treat asthma, ephedrine, epinephrine, pseudoephedrine, drugs for depression, MAO Inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine) . It is important to read carefully all labels on over-the-counter drugs, especially those used to treat colds, allergies, diet pills and asthma.

 

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