Why is it prescribed?
Ratio-Salbutamol® HFA contains salbutamol.
Salbutamol is used to relieve and prevent bronchospasm associated with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other pulmonary disorders where bronchospasm is a complicating factor. It is also indicated in the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Side Effects
Ratio-Salbutamol® HFA contains salbutamol.
Along with its needed effects, salbutamol may cause some unwanted or undesirable effects. Generally, salbutamol is well tolerated and many people will not experience unwanted effects. The severity and duration of these effects are dependant on many factors including duration of therapy, dose, route of administration and individual response. Possible unwanted effects include:
- cough (inhaled preparations only)
- nervousness
- slight palpitations (awareness of heart beat)
- tremor
- dry mouth and throat (inhaled preparations only)
Uncommon:
- headache
- increased heart rate
- dizziness
- nausea
- muscle cramps
- trouble sleeping
- weakness
Rare:
- restlessness
- irritability
- unusual taste
- angina (chest pain/discomfort)
- increase in blood pressure
- hyperactivity in children
Many of these unwanted effects, especially the most common ones, may disappear with continued use. Check with the doctor or pharmacist if any of them continue or become bothersome.
Precautions and Warnings for Ratio-Salbutamol® HFA
Ratio-Salbutamol® HFA contains salbutamol
Poor response to salbutamol can often be attributed to improper use of the delivery device. Be sure to follow the directions given to you by your pharmacist and read the patient instructions that are provided with each product. Never exceed the maximum dosage set by your physician. If you find that you are not responding to your usual dose, it could mean that your asthma is worsening and you should contact your physician. Increasing the dose, especially over extended periods, can lead to decreasing response to the drug. Keep in mind that the bronchodilator action should last between 2 and 6 hours. If you are using salbutamol for an acute asthma episode and the condition continues or worsens, call your doctor or seek medical attention immediately. If you need to use salbutamol to relieve symptoms more than 3 times a week you should also be using an anti-inflammatory medication (e.g. beclomethasone, fluticasone).
Drug Interactions: Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about any prescription or over-the- counter medications you are taking. The following drugs and drug classes have been known to interact with salbutamol: - MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors (e.g. phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
- tricyclic antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline)
- some beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol)
- other bronchodilators (e.g. terbutaline)
- digoxin
Use is not recommended in the following situations:
- allergy to salbutamol or any component of the preparation (some of these products may contain sulfite preservatives or lactose so ask your pharmacist).
- cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart beat) associated with tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
Caution recommended in the following situations:
- hyperthyroidism
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- cardiovascular disorders
- seizures
- heart disease
- sensitivity to sympathomimetics (drugs that stimulate the central nervous sysytem)
Use in pregnancy: Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that you may be pregnant.
Use while breastfeeding: Consult your doctor or pharmacist before you begin breastfeeding.
Patient Information
Use Ratio-Salbutamol® exactly as prescribed my the doctor. The Ratio-Salbutamol® is an aerosol meant for inhalation only.
Your doctor or pharmacist should have instructed you on the proper use and care of your Ratio-Salbutamol®. It is advisable to have your technique reassessed by the pharmacist for the first 2 or 3 refills of your prescription.
Remember to shake the inhaler before each use.
Some people experience dry mouth and throat after use. Rinsing with water may help prevent the dryness.
When 2 inhalations are required, wait at one full minute between doses. This is rescue medication and should be carried with you at all times.
Each canister usually contains 200 doses so it is important to keep a record of approximately when it should be replaced. To avoid problems, many people keep 2 inhalers on hand.
Your inhaler should be stored at room temperature (between 15 to 25 degrees centigrade). The contents of the canister is under pressure and should never be punctured, used or stored near heat or open flame.
Devices (e.g. spacers) are available to assist you in using your inhaler. Although these devices are not necessary, they have been shown to increase effectiveness and help people who are unable to coordinate inhalation with actuation of the inhaler. Your doctor or pharmacist will help you choose the device most suited to your needs.
The inhaler should be cleaned and cared for according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Directions for Use
The usual dose for children and adults is 1-2 puffs (100 to 200 mcg) as needed to relieve bronchospasm. The usual dose for children over 12 years of age and adults for the prevention of exercise-induced asthma is 2 puffs (200 mcg) fifteen minutes before exercise.
Lung Diseases Treated with this Drug
- asthma
- bronchitis
- bronchospasm associated with COPD
- chronic bronchitis (COPD)
- COPD
- emphysema (COPD)
- exercise-induced bronchospasm
Need More Information?
For more information contact your physician, pharmacist, other health care professional or for general questions call your local lung association.
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