ProAir vs Ventolin
What to choose ProAir or Ventolin
There are some inhaling devices that are indicated to reduce asthma reactions. They have a similar effect. But are they similar to each other? This article will focus on albuterol inhalers, such as ProAir and Ventolin.
In fact, when we talk about albuterol and Ventolin, then we are talking about the same drug. Ventolin is the name of the brand, and albuterol is the name of the drug itself. Albuterol is found in several different brands of inhalers. But at its core, it is all the same drug - the bronchodilator albuterol. It helps to reduce hard asthma symptoms and improve breathing. Albuterol helps to prevent symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and breathing problems.
The medicine itself has two synonymous names, albuterol and salbutamol. It is contained in L-shaped inhalers under the following brands: ProAir RespiClick, Proventil HFA, ProAir HFA, and Ventolin HFA.
Thus, it can be said that Ventolin and ProAir are two identical inhalers with the same medicine inside, only under different names.
These inhalers are intended for the patients with COPD and asthma, which often cause breathing problems, shortness of breath and coughing. The medicine inside the inhaler helps to open the airways and increase the air entering the lungs, which helps to normalize breathing. It is intended to relieve asthma symptoms that have already begun.
Albuterol is sometimes prescribed to patients with severe allergies associated with respiratory disorder, and is also used in a hospital setting to normalize the potassium in the patient's blood.
Usually, if a patient suffers from asthma, then he or she knows what irritants can cause negative symptoms and takes the medicine half an hour before the contact with a possible irritant. In this case, there is a chance of preventing an asthma attack.
Inhalers that come with albuterol help to quickly weaken asthma reactions. The best effect becomes noticeable in 2-3 hours after using the inhaler, and this effect weakens after a few hours. Typically, patients take an inhaler with albuterol several times a day to control or prevent asthma effects.
If you use a Ventolin or ProAir inhaler and you understand that the medication does not work, or makes the symptoms worse, then you should immediately consult a medical specialist. The medication may be not suitable for you and your doctor may prescribe another drug.
Dosage
The medicines quantity depends on the type and structure of the inhaler you are using. Ventolin and ProAir are metered-dose inhalers that give a certain dose of albuterol - 108 mcg at one click on the cartridge.
For the correct dosage, follow your doctor's directions and recommendations. The total dosage is 1-2 clicks (inhalations) with an interval of 4-6 hours. As it was mentioned earlier, many patients use the inhaler shortly before they interact with an irritant or exercise.
When using the inhaler, you must fully follow the doctor's instructions and contact him if you have any symptoms that bother you.
Ventolin and ProAir Side Effects
Common side reactions are sore throat, nervousness, unsteadiness, nausea, dizziness, bad taste in the mouth, muscle pain.
More serious side effects that require medical attention include chest pain, breathing disorder, irregular heartbeat, allergy signs such as itching, swelling, rash, hives.
Store the inhaler in a cool, dry, dark place out of reach of children. Always try to make it filled on time and make sure that it contains the medicine, as you may need it at any moment.
ProAir and Ventolin Comparison
| ProAir | Ventolin | |
|---|---|---|
| Type: | Rescue | Rescue |
| Manufacturer: | Teva | GSK |
| Substance: | Albuterol | Albuterol |
| Dosage: | 90mcg, 108mcg | 100 mcg |
| Avg Price: | $67 | $30 |