Ventolin Diskus Description

Ventolin Diskus is a dry powder inhaler your doctor can prescribe for treating and preventing bronchospasms caused by asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The active ingredient of Ventolin Diskus is called Albuterol, a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) that can be used as a rescue inhaler when you have a sudden asthma attack or take it as a preventative step when you know you will be exposed to a trigger that can cause an attack.

Albuterol Works Fast to Relax Muscles that Can Constrict Airways

When inhaled as directed, this short-acting beta agonist works by causing the muscles that line your airways to relax and allow a better air flow through the bronchial tubes that lead to your lungs. You should always keep Ventolin Diskus close by as a precaution for any unexpected triggers that can set off an attack. Usually, people with asthma or COPD will also use a long-acting medicine that has a corticosteroid as well in order to reduce inflammation in your airways.

Risk Factors for Asthma or COPD

Some risk factors for having asthma include genetics, pollution, and is quite common in people with allergies. From dust mites and pet dander to smoke and perfume, your body’s immune system can react as though these allergens are a threat to you and will signal for help. Your airways constrict, you sneeze, your eyes water and your nose runs. These are all caused by substances in your body that are trying to drive the threat away.

COPD include chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis is an ongoing inflammatory condition that causes swelling and irritation to the respiratory passages which worsens over time. Emphysema involves a decrease in your lung function due to over inflated air sacs in your lungs that cause problems trying to exhale and inhale. Smoking seems to be the primary factor for having COPD.

Before Ventolin Diskus is Prescribed

Ask your doctor about any risks of using Ventolin Diskus if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Report other medical conditions or allergies to your doctor and list any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including alternative medicine and naturopathic therapies. Your doctor can then determine if Ventolin Diskus is the right medication for you.

Ventolin Diskus Precautions

Keep track of the built-in counter on your Ventolin Diskus so you do not run out and have nothing to act quickly during an asthma attack. Do not drive or operate machinery if you are temporarily light-headed after using Ventolin Diskus. Children as young as 4 years of age can be prescribed Ventolin Diskus, as long as they are able to learn how to use it effectively as dry powder inhalers do not work with spacers.

Possible Side Effects of Ventolin Diskus

• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Sore throat

Drugs Similar to Ventolin Diskus

• Combivent
• Airomir Inhaler
• Spiriva plus Device