Ventolin is a sympathomimetic (beta agonist) bronchodilator that relaxes the smooth muscle in the airways which allows air to flow in and out of the lungs more easily. Ventolin is used to treat or prevent bronchospasm in people with reversible obstructive airway disease. It is also used to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm. Ventolin is also used to prevent and treat wheezing, difficulty breathing and chest tightness caused by lung diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD; a group of diseases that affect the lungs and airways). Ventolin is in a class of medications called bronchodilators. It works by relaxing and opening the air passages to the lungs to make breathing easier.

Normally, air moves easily into and out of the lungs through a network of airways. However, during an asthma attack, the muscles around these airways tighten. This narrows the airways and makes it harder to breathe. This is called a bronchospasm.
 
Ventolin is part of a class of drugs called beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, or beta agonists for short. Beta agonists stimulate beta receptors in the body, including those on the muscles around the airways. This stimulation causes the muscles to relax, which opens up the airways and allows more air to get into and through the lungs.
 
Ventolin also has some effects on decreasing the activity of mast cells in the lungs, which play an important role in inflammation and allergic reactions.

Make sure you understand how to use the inhaler properly. Shake the canister well before using. Place the canister near your mouth and exhale. Depress the spray as you inhale deeply. Hold your breath for a few seconds to allow the drug to be absorbed. If more than one inhalation is prescribed, wait at least one full minute between inhalations. Rinse your mouth after using to help prevent dryness and relieve throat irritation.

Use Ventolin exactly as prescribed. Do not use it more frequently without your doctor's approval. Excessive use may result in decreased efficacy and increased side effects. If you find yourself using this more than usual, contact your doctor.

Side effects are: dry mouth, irritated throat, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, loss of appetite, altered taste sensation, restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, trembling, and sweating may occur but should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute.

Inform your doctor if you experience chest pain, pounding heartbeat or breathing difficulties while taking this medication.

In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.