Ventolin inhalers, a guide

Everything you need to know about Ventolin inhalers: types, uses, safety, and how to get them online.

Whether you’re new to asthma, looking to brush up on inhaler skills, or just curious about how Ventolin inhalers work, this guide is for you. We’ll break down what Ventolin inhalers are, how they work, who should use them, and why getting the right advice (and the right inhaler) can make all the difference. You’ll also get practical tips, safety info, and a simple walkthrough for buying Ventolin inhalers online.

Five key takeaways

• Ventolin inhalers provide fast relief from asthma and COPD symptoms by relaxing airway muscles [1], [2].
• There are two main types: Evohaler (aerosol) and Accuhaler (dry powder), each with unique benefits [3], [4].
• Ventolin is generally safe for adults, children, and during pregnancy, but always check with your doctor first [3], [5].
• Using your inhaler correctly ensures you get the most benefit—practice makes perfect!
• Buying Ventolin inhalers online is safe and convenient when you use a regulated pharmacy like Courier Pharmacy.

What is a Ventolin inhaler?

Ventolin inhalers are reliever inhalers designed to ease asthma quickly and COPD symptoms like wheezing, chest tightness, and breathlessness.

The main ingredient, salbutamol, works by relaxing the muscles around your airways, making it easier to breathe almost straight away [3]. If you’ve ever felt the panic of not being able to catch your breath, you’ll know how important fast relief is.

Ventolin evohalers are used as needed, not on a regular schedule. They’re your go-to for sudden symptoms or before exercise if you know that’s a trigger.

At Courier Pharmacy, you can order Ventolin inhalers online by completing a simple assessment, which our medical team reviews to ensure you receive the correct treatment.

Types of Ventolin inhalers

Both types of Ventolin inhalers contain salbutamol and are designed to relieve asthma symptoms, but they work a little differently.

Ventolin evohaler

The Ventolin evohaler is the classic “press-and-breathe” device. You press down on the canister while inhaling, which releases a measured dose of medicine. This requires some practice to get used to, and so is more suited for adults [3].

Practical tip:

If you are struggling with getting the coordination right, you can buy a spacer device, which is added to the inhaler. This means that you do not have to coordinate breathing in with pressing down on the inhaler.

Ventolin Accuhaler

The Accuhaler delivers a dry powder instead of an aerosol. It doesn’t require breathing in at the same time as pressing down, so it is easier to use. You slide the lever, breathe in deeply through the mouthpiece, and the powder is released.

This type is often easier for children or anyone who struggles with the timing of the Evohaler [4].

How does a Ventolin inhaler work?

When you have asthma or COPD, the muscles around your airways can tighten, making it difficult for air to move in and out of your lungs.

Salbutamol, the active ingredient in Ventolin, is a short-acting beta-2 agonist. It relaxes these muscles, opens up the airways, and makes breathing easier, usually within minutes [3]. This quick action is why Ventolin inhalers are called “relievers” [1].

Remember, Ventolin is not a “preventer” inhaler. If you’re using your reliever more than three times a week, you should talk to your doctor about your asthma management [2].

Who should use a Ventolin inhaler?

Ventolin inhalers are suitable for:

• Adults and teenagers with asthma or COPD [3],
• Children aged 4 and above (with supervision) [3],
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women (with medical advice) [3],
• Anyone who needs quick relief from breathing difficulties [3].

Who should be cautious when using Ventolin?

If you have high blood pressure, heart problems, an overactive thyroid, or are taking other asthma medicines or steroids, always check with your doctor before using Ventolin. If you have a known allergy to salbutamol or any other ingredient, Ventolin isn’t for you [3].

How to use a Ventolin inhaler: Step-by-step

Getting your inhaler technique right is crucial. Here’s a simple guide:

1. Remove the mouthpiece cover and check for dust.
2. Shake the inhaler five times.
3. Sit or stand upright. Breathe out gently, away from the inhaler.
4. Place the mouthpiece between your teeth and close your lips around it.
5. Start to breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth.
6. As you begin to breathe in, press down on the canister to release a puff.
7. Continue to breathe in steadily and deeply.
8. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds (or as long as comfortable).
9. Remove the inhaler and breathe out gently.
10. If you need a second puff, wait 30 seconds and repeat.

For the Accuhaler:

• Open the device, slide the lever, breathe in deeply, hold your breath, then breathe out gently [4].

Pro tip: Practice in front of a mirror or with your pharmacist until you feel confident. If you’re using a spacer, follow the same steps but breathe in and out slowly through the mouthpiece.

How much Ventolin should you use?

Doses vary by age and need. Here’s a general guide [3], [5] :

Age group	To relieve symptoms	To prevent symptoms (e.g., before exercise)	Regular treatment	Max dose in 24h
Adults & teens (12+)	1–2 puffs	2 puffs, 10–15 min before trigger	2 puffs, 4x/day	8 puffs
Children (under 12)	1 puff	1 puff, 10–15 min before trigger	2 puffs, 4x/day	8 puffs

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and never exceed the recommended dose.

Tips for getting the most from your Ventolin inhaler

• Replace the mouthpiece cover after use to keep it clean.
• Rinse your mouth or gargle with water after using your inhaler to reduce irritation.
• Carry your inhaler with you at all times—especially if you know you’ll be exposed to triggers.
• Keep a spare inhaler at school or in your child’s bag if they’re away from home.
• If your inhaler isn’t working as well as usual, don’t just increase the dose—speak to your doctor.

Safety and precautions

Ventolin inhalers are generally safe, but keep these in mind:

• Only use your Ventolin inhaler when you need it—don’t use it regularly unless advised.
• Don’t use Ventolin if you’re allergic to any of its ingredients.
• If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to be, check with your doctor first.
• Speak to your doctor if you have severe asthma, high blood pressure, heart problems, or thyroid issues [3].

Important: Never buy inhalers from unregulated online sources—always use a registered pharmacy like Courier Pharmacy for your safety.

Side effects of Ventolin inhalers

Most people use Ventolin without serious problems. Some may experience the following [3] :

• Throat or mouth irritation
• Temporary increase in heart rate
• Mild shaking or tremor
• Headache
• Muscle cramps

Serious side effects are rare but can include chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, or severe allergic reactions [3]. If anything unusual or worrying happens, contact your doctor straight away.

FAQs about Ventolin inhalers

How quickly does a Ventolin inhaler work?

Ventolin usually starts working within minutes and can last up to five hours .

Can I use my Ventolin inhaler if I don’t have asthma?

No, using Ventolin without a medical need can cause side effects and won’t help.

What should I do if my inhaler isn’t working as well as usual?

Contact your doctor. You may need a review or a different treatment plan.

Is it safe to buy Ventolin inhalers online?

Yes—if you use a regulated pharmacy like Courier Pharmacy. You will need to complete an online questionnaire first.

How do I buy Ventolin inhalers online?

Complete an online assessment at Courier Pharmacy. A registered pharmacist will review your answers and recommend the right inhaler for you.

Summary on Ventolin inhalers

Ventolin inhalers are a trusted, effective way to manage asthma and COPD symptoms for adults and children. Used correctly, they provide quick relief and help you stay active and confident. If you’re ever unsure about your asthma management, don’t hesitate to ask for help—your pharmacist or GP is always there for you.

This information is for general guidance only. For medical advice, please consult your doctor or healthcare provider.

References:

1. NHS (2023) Asthma. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/
2. NICE (2023) Newly diagnosed asthma – Optimizing treatment. Available at: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/asthma/management/newly-diagnosed-asthma-optimizing-treatment/
3. emc (2025) Patient Information Leaflet: Ventolin Evohaler. Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/850/smpc
4. Accord Healthcare Ltd (2024) Summary of Product Characteristics: Ventolin Evohaler 100 micrograms. [Online] electronic Medicines Compendium (emc). Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/849/smpc
5. NICE (2024) Asthma: diagnosis and monitoring of asthma in adults, children and young people. NICE guideline [NG245]. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng245/chapter/Recommendations#principles-of-pharmacological-treatment

How this content was created:

This article was written by an experienced medical copywriter, reviewed by a registered pharmacist, and based on clinical studies, NHS and NICE guidelines, and real patient stories. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, trustworthiness, and usefulness for patients and healthcare professionals alike.