Asthalin 100 mcg is formulated with Salbutamol, a swiftly-acting bronchodilator to alleviate the respiratory issue of having constricted airways. The method of action of the medicine is based on the relaxing of the muscles lining the air passages which in turn allows for easier entry and exit of air in lungs.
It may be utilized as a means of getting rid of the bronchospasm that accompanies asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Premedication with Salbutamol 100 microgram puffers is also advised before exercise or exposure to the other known triggers of breathing problems.
Uses of Asthalin 100 mcg
This inhaler may be used for:
- Relief of bronchospasm associated with asthma
- Relief of breathing difficulties related to COPD
- Wheezing and chest tightness caused by narrowed airways
- Shortness of breath associated with bronchospasm
- Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm in suitable patients
Salbutamol inhalers are generally used when quick relief from airway narrowing is needed.
How Does Asthalin 100 mcg Work?
During episodes of asthma or bronchospasm, the contraction of muscle around the airways can occur. This leads to narrowing of the air passages which might result in difficulty in breathing.
Salbutamol is a drug that binds to beta-2 receptors that are present in the muscles of the airways. As a result of this receptor activation, muscles become relaxed, and airways open.
Reduced restriction of airways enables better airflow, and signs like wheezing and chest heaviness can subside.
Benefits of Asthalin 100 mcg
When used as directed, the inhaler may help:
- Relax tightened airway muscles
- Improve airflow through the lungs
- Relieve wheezing
- Reduce chest tightness
- Ease shortness of breath caused by bronchospasm
- Provide quick relief during certain breathing episodes
The inhaler mainly provides symptom relief. People with persistent asthma may also need a regular preventer treatment prescribed by their healthcare professional.
Dosage and How to Use
You are to follow precisely the directions your doctor or pharmacist will give you regarding Asthalin 100 mcg administration. Your suitable dosage and dose schedule depend on your particular age, medical condition and reaction to individual treatment.
Inhaler handling is very important since the manner of administration will determine the quantity of medicine entering your lung, therefore it is essential to use the device properly. Healthdirect urges you to have your method of inhalation verified by a qualified professional, particularly at the time of getting a new inhaler.
Regular metered-dose inhaler procedure:
- Pull off the cover of the nozzle.
- Give a shake to the inhaler if the product guide specifies this.
- Honk air out and at the same time take a few meters away from the mouthpiece
- Put the nozzle in your teeth and seal the lips well.
- First in through the mouth and simultaneously, the valve of the press is opened according to the way you press.
- If convenient, take a deep breath and maintain it for a couple of seconds more.
- Pull out and exhaust gently.
- Put on the cap.
Don’t take additional puffs beyond your prescription. Your pharmacist or doctor would be the right ones to show the method to you when you think you’re not sure.
Possible Side Effects
Some people may have quite minor symptoms if they take salbutamol.
Possible ones that might show include:
- Trembling or shaking
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Dizziness
- Faster heartbeat
- Muscle cramps
- Throat irritation
The degree of symptoms will likely worsen after large doses of the drug.
If side effects are serious and/ or they don’t go away or you just feel something’s wrong, contact the doctor. For a heavy case like severe chest pain, breathing difficulty or some other significant reaction, get emergency medical assistance.
Warnings and Precautions
Before using Asthalin 100 mcg, tell your healthcare professional if you have:
- Heart disease
- An irregular heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- An overactive thyroid
- Low potassium levels
- A history of reactions to salbutamol
- Other lung conditions
Also tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines, inhalers and supplements you use.
If you find that you are using the inhaler more than usual, your breathing condition may not be well controlled and your treatment may need to be reviewed.
When to Seek Medical Help
This inhaler is intended to provide relief from airway narrowing, but severe or rapidly worsening breathing problems need medical attention.
Seek urgent help if:
- Your breathing becomes severely difficult
- Your symptoms are getting worse quickly
- Your usual inhaler is not providing the expected relief
- You develop severe chest pain
- You become extremely weak, confused or unable to speak normally because of breathlessness
Do not keep increasing the number of puffs on your own when symptoms are not improving.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you use:
- Other asthma inhalers
- Beta-blockers
- Diuretics
- Steroid medicines
- Heart medicines
- Medicines that affect heart rhythm
- Diabetes medicines
- Other bronchodilators
Certain combinations can alter your heart rate, blood pressure, or potassium levels. A health professional will review your medications and make any changes if required.
How to Care for the Inhaler
Keeping the inhaler clean and in good condition helps it work properly.
- Keep the mouthpiece clean.
- Replace the protective cap after use.
- Check that the inhaler is not past its expiry date.
- Check the device regularly to make sure it is not empty.
- Follow the cleaning instructions supplied with your particular inhaler.
- Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure how to clean or maintain it.
Healthdirect also recommends checking inhaler technique regularly, especially if the medicine does not seem to be helping as expected.
Storage
- Store the inhaler below 30°C, unless your product label states otherwise.
- Protect it from direct sunlight.
- Keep it away from excessive heat.
- Do not leave it in a hot car.
- Keep it away from moisture.
- Keep it out of reach of children.
- Do not use the inhaler after its expiry date.
Australian information for 100 microgram salbutamol inhalers such as Airomir states storage below 30°C and protection from direct sunlight.
FAQs
How can I tell if Asthalin 100 mcg is reaching my lungs properly?
Good inhaler technique makes a big difference. If you notice medicine collecting in your mouth or you are not getting the expected relief, your technique may need checking. A pharmacist, doctor or nurse can watch you use the inhaler and correct any problems.
Can I use a spacer with Asthalin 100 mcg?
Some metered-dose inhalers can be used with a spacer. A spacer may make it easier to coordinate pressing the inhaler with breathing in and can help more medicine reach the lungs. Ask your healthcare professional whether a spacer is suitable for your device.
What does it mean if I taste the medicine after using the inhaler?
A small amount of medicine can sometimes remain in the mouth or throat after inhalation. This can happen when inhaler technique is not quite right. If you regularly taste or feel a large amount of the medicine in your mouth, ask a healthcare professional to check your technique.
How do I know when my inhaler needs replacing?
Check the dose counter if your particular inhaler has one. If there is no counter, follow the product instructions and keep track of how many doses have been used. Do not rely only on shaking the canister to decide whether medicine remains.
Can cold air trigger the symptoms this inhaler is used for?
Cold air can trigger breathing symptoms in some people with asthma or sensitive airways. If you regularly notice symptoms in cold weather, discuss prevention strategies and your treatment plan with your healthcare professional.
Should I rinse my mouth after using this inhaler?
Salbutamol itself does not normally require the same mouth-rinsing routine associated with inhaled corticosteroids. However, if you use more than one inhaler, follow the specific instructions for each medicine.
Why does the inhaler sometimes make me feel shaky?
Shaking or trembling can occur because salbutamol stimulates beta receptors. It is often mild and temporary, but speak with your doctor if it becomes troublesome or happens frequently.
Can I use the inhaler if I have no symptoms?
It may be prescribed for use before a known trigger, such as exercise, in suitable patients. Otherwise, follow the dosing schedule given by your healthcare professional rather than taking extra doses without a reason.
What if the inhaler does not seem to work anymore?
Do not simply keep increasing the dose. Check that the inhaler is not empty, make sure you are using the correct technique and speak with your healthcare professional. Increasing reliance on a reliever can also indicate that your breathing condition needs a treatment review.
Can Asthalin 100 mcg be used with a spacer?
Yes, a spacer can be suitable with some metered-dose inhalers. It can be particularly helpful for people who find it difficult to coordinate pressing the canister with breathing in. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to confirm whether your particular inhaler can be used with one.
References
- Healthdirect Australia – Salbutamol – Salbutamol
- Healthdirect Australia – How to Use an Inhaler
Healthdirect – Inhaler Technique Guide - Therapeutic Goods Administration – Salbutamol Inhaler
TGA – Salbutamol 100 microgram Inhaler
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Asthalin 100 mcg contains salbutamol and should be used according to the directions provided by a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medication.
