DRUG OF THE DAY
albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol
Short-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (SABA)
Before opening the card, recall one use, one safety check and one counseling point.
Reveal the drug learning card
Names and formulations
- Ventolin HFA: metered-dose inhaler; priming and cleaning are device specific
Ventolin HFA priming, cleaning, dose-counter use, and inhalation technique are device specific; teach the actual inhaler dispensed.
Common use
Treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in reversible obstructive airway disease and prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Mechanism of action
Stimulates beta2 receptors in bronchial smooth muscle, increasing cyclic AMP and producing bronchodilation.
Important adverse effects and monitoring
- Increasing need or reduced response can signal deteriorating asthma and requires prompt reassessment.
- Monitor symptom relief, use frequency, tremor, heart rate, and potassium when high systemic exposure is plausible.
- Paradoxical bronchospasm can occur and may be life threatening.
Patient counseling
- Demonstrate inhaler technique, priming, cleaning, and dose-counter interpretation for the dispensed device.
- Seek care if the usual dose stops working or is needed more often than prescribed.
Interaction to recognize
With: nonselective beta blockers
Why it matters: May block bronchodilation and can provoke severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma.
Practical response: Avoid when possible; if a beta blocker is essential, selection and monitoring require clinician oversight.
Check the original sources
- DailyMed — Ventolin HFA (albuterol) prescribing information
Sections: 1 Indications and Usage; 2 Dosage and Administration; 5 Warnings and Precautions; 7 Drug Interactions; 12.1 Mechanism of Action; 17 Patient Counseling Information. Source checked 2026-09-13.
Selected learning points; verify current labeling for the complete prescribing information.