Risks & Complications of the Ventolin Inhaler

As with any other form of medication there are risks associated with using a Ventolin inhaler in the form of the potential side effects that this can have. This article looks into the ways in which these may affect somebody using the Ventolin inhaler and may be of interest for anybody about to use one or experiencing worrying symptoms during its use.

What are the most common side effects of using a Ventolin inhaler?

There are some symptoms commonly associated with using a Ventolin inhaler which should not be of great concern to a user. When experiencing these it is fine to continue using the inhaler so long as you are sure to inform your health care provider that they are taking place.


These symptoms include irritation of the lining of your airways especially the mouth or throat, feeling tense and jittery or having a headache or feeling nauseated. Hot flushes are also relatively common as is a raised heart rate.

Less common side effects also include muscle cramps or hyperactivity. These are mentioned here because although they are not common, they are not usually serious and can be treated like the other symptoms in this section - by getting into contact with your doctor and continuing to use your Ventolin inhaler if needed.

My Ventolin inhaler isn't working as well as it used to – what should I do?

If you ever feel that your inhaler isn't working as well for you as it used to you should inform your medical provider. This is because decreasing efficacy can be an indicator that your condition may be worsening or that the Ventolin inhaler is being rendered ineffective for some other reason. Either way this is a potentially serious problem possibly requiring medical intervention in other ways. This necessitates the need to consult with your doctor and inform them of your concerns.

What are the potential serious side effects of using a Ventolin inhaler?

Whilst the vast majority of people are able to use the Ventolin inhaler without serious risk to their health some people do experience what can be very serious side effects. These are usually caused by an allergic reaction to the active ingredients present within the inhaler.

If you experience the development of swelling in the face or mouth, rashes, worsened breathing trouble, acute frailty or severe heart problems then you should discontinue the use of the inhaler. Immediate, urgent consultation with your doctor should be sought or if the symptoms are severe enough then the emergency services must be called.

When should a Ventolin inhaler not be used?

There are some conditions which may prevent you from being able to safely use the Ventolin inhaler without risk of severe side effects. It is for these reasons that you should always tell your doctor if they are unaware that you have had heart, liver, kidney, blood pressure or thyroid problems in the past. In addition to this the details of any allergies you have and other medications you are currently on should be given. Lastly if you have ever had to stop taking other similar medications, for example other asthma drugs, due to side effects you should inform them of this.

Ventolin inhaler overdose

If you have exceeded the number of doses recommended to you by your doctor there is a danger that you have overdosed on the Ventolin present within your Ventolin inhaler. In this instance you should get into contact with your GP as soon as possible because you may require urgent medical attention.

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