Ventolin (Salbutamol)

Blue Inhaler | Salbutamol Inhaler

How to Buy a Ventolin Inhaler Online in the UK

You can buy a Ventolin inhaler safely online from a trusted UK provider like UK Meds. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose the inhaler you need – either the Ventolin Evohaler or the Ventolin Accuhaler.
2. Fill in a short online health questionnaire.
3. A registered independent prescriber will review your answers. If approved, your inhaler will be dispatched quickly to your door.

Always speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you need personal medical advice. A Ventolin inhaler offers fast relief when breathing problems strike.

Ventolin Inhaler Subscription Options

UK Meds also offers a subscription service. This helps you save money and ensures you always have an inhaler ready, without the need to reorder each time.

Is It Legal to Buy Ventolin Online?

Yes, it is legal to buy Ventolin online in the UK as long as you have a successful medical consultation with a registered prescriber and order through a trusted online prescription service or registered online pharmacy. As it is a prescription-only medication, Ventolin cannot be purchased without a prescription from a doctor. If you have an existing prescription from a GP, you can obtain a Ventolin inhaler from regulated online pharmacies and prescription services.

It is completely legal to buy Ventolin online through UK Meds. All medicines are genuine and are dispensed by UK-registered pharmacies. Because Ventolin is a prescription-only medicine (POM), you must complete a free online consultation to check it is safe for you before it can be ordered.

Can You Buy a Ventolin Inhaler Over the Counter?

No, in the UK, a Ventolin inhaler cannot be bought over the counter. You need a prescription from a doctor to obtain it as it is a prescription-only medication. Your GP or or online healthcare services like UK Meds can provide you with a prescription after a successful medical consultation.

Is Ventolin Available Without a Prescription?

No. Whilst Ventolin is a common asthma medication, in the UK, it is not available over the counter. You will need a prescription from a healthcare professional before you can purchase it. You can get a prescription from your doctor or GP, or, in some cases, you can get a prescription online through a trusted online prescription service or registered online pharmacy following a successful medical assessment from your online health consultation with a registered prescriber. If approved, a prescription will be issued, and your inhaler will be sent by a UK pharmacy.

Where to Buy a Ventolin Inhaler: Popular Stores

Boots

You can get a Ventolin inhaler from Boots. However, UK Meds often offers better prices and savings when buying more than one inhaler.

Amazon

Ventolin inhalers are not currently available on Amazon. UK Meds provides a safe and affordable way to order online.

Tesco

Ventolin inhalers are not available at Tesco. UK Meds offers a simple way to buy Ventolin online with discounts for bulk orders.

Asda

Asda sells Ventolin inhalers, but you may find cheaper prices and better deals through UK Meds.

Superdrug

Superdrug stocks Ventolin inhalers. However, buying through UK Meds can often save you more, especially if you need regular supplies.

Choose UK Meds for a safe, trusted, and cost-effective way to buy your Ventolin inhaler online in the UK.

For more information about this prescription medicine, please refer to the Ventolin Accuhaler Patient Information Leaflet and the Ventolin Evohaler Patient Information Leaflet.

What do our Ventolin patients say?

Everyone’s experience with Ventolin (salbutamol), a common treatment for asthma and COPD, is different. People have shared how it has helped, from easing mild wheezing to managing serious breathing problems.

• Customer Feedback: You can read real experiences from UK Meds customers in the reviews section above.
• Additional Resources: For wider feedback, sites like Drugs.com and WebMD offer more insights into how Ventolin has helped people manage their symptoms.

Speak to Your Healthcare Provider First

Before starting Ventolin, always speak to your doctor or healthcare provider. They will check if Ventolin is right for you and may suggest an alternative if needed.

Ventolin is made to help people with asthma and COPD breathe easier, but personalised advice is the best way to get the right results for your condition.

What is Ventolin?

Ventolin, often called the blue inhaler in the UK, is a safe and effective medicine used to relieve breathing problems linked to asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). The active ingredient, salbutamol, works quickly to ease symptoms like:

• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath

This inhaler gives fast-acting relief, helping you breathe easier when symptoms start. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for correct use.

While there is no permanent cure for asthma, Ventolin is a proven way to help manage the condition effectively.

Find out the key differences between a Ventolin Evohaler and a Ventolin Accuhaler.

Ventolin is a bronchodilator, usually prescribed for asthma and other breathing conditions. These inhalers are typically used only when needed, unlike long-acting bronchodilators that are taken daily to manage symptoms over time.

Ventolin belongs to the group of short-acting bronchodilators. It helps open up the airways quickly, offering fast relief from wheezing or shortness of breath. This is why it is often called a rescue inhaler, as it can stop asthma attacks as soon as they start.

Video: A Doctor Provides an Overview of Ventolin

The video below gives a clear overview of Ventolin (salbutamol), a bronchodilator often prescribed for asthma and COPD. A doctor explains what it is, how it works, and when it is used.

How does a Ventolin inhaler work?

It's difficult for air to pass in and out of your lungs if you suffer from asthma. As a short-acting beta 2 agonist, Salbutamol stimulates the beta 2 receptors into the lungs allowing the muscles in your airways to relax, which causes them to open up and makes it easier to breathe.

How quickly does Ventolin work?

After you take a puff of the medicine, your Ventolin inhaler works almost immediately and will continue to work for the following 3 to 5 hours (Johnson et al, 2024).

Within 5 to 20 minutes you should experience some relief from your symptoms (Johnson et al., 2022; Ullmann et al., 2015). The exact timing can vary between individuals, but it is generally fast-acting.

Why Ventolin is effective

• Rapid Action: Ventolin provides fast and reliable relief. Its quick effects make it the go-to inhaler for sudden breathing problems like wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath.
• Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB): Ventolin is a trusted option for people who experience breathing difficulties caused by exercise. It works well for both adults and children.

How do I use a Ventolin inhaler safely and effectively?

General Usage Guidelines

• Use Ventolin exactly as your doctor or healthcare provider tells you.
• Do not change the dose or use it more often unless your doctor advises you to.
• Always follow the instructions on your prescription. If you're unsure how to use your inhaler, ask your doctor, asthma nurse, or pharmacist for help.

How often should you use Ventolin?

• Ventolin is usually used when needed—typically one to two puffs up to four times a day.
• If you find yourself using it more often, your asthma may not be well controlled. Speak to your GP if your usage increases.

Using Ventolin correctly helps you manage asthma or COPD symptoms and breathe more easily.

How do I clean a Ventolin Evohaler?

To clean your Ventolin Evohaler, follow these simple steps:

1. Remove the metal canister from the plastic inhaler. Do not put the canister in water.
2. Take off the plastic mouthpiece cover.
3. Rinse the plastic parts under warm running water for at least 30 seconds. Make sure the water flows through both the mouthpiece and the inhaler.
4. Shake off any excess water and leave the parts to dry completely, ideally overnight.
5. Once dry, reinsert the metal canister and replace the mouthpiece cover.

Important: Never put the metal canister in water. Regular cleaning helps prevent blockages and keeps your inhaler working properly.

Using Ventolin During an Asthma Attack

• Take up to 10 puffs, leaving 30 seconds between each one.
• If your symptoms don’t improve, you can take another set of puffs after 10 minutes.
• In a severe attack, a nebuliser may be needed. Contact your doctor if you don’t already have one available.

Emergency Signs:

• You're still struggling to breathe after using 10 puffs of your inhaler.
• Call 999 or seek emergency help straight away.

Using Ventolin for Exercise-Related Breathing Problems

• To help prevent exercise-related breathing problems, take Ventolin 15 to 30 minutes before exercise. It works quickly and provides reliable protection.
• Unlike other options like leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs), which must be taken hours earlier, Ventolin is fast-acting and more convenient.

What is the recommended dosage?

• For quick relief (bronchospasm):
  • Adults and children over 4 should take 1 to 2 puffs every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
  • Some people may only need 1 puff every 4 hours.
• To prevent exercise-induced symptoms:
  • Adults and children over 4 should take 2 puffs 15 to 30 minutes before exercise.

Always follow the exact dose your doctor or healthcare provider recommends for you.

What if I miss a dose?

• Take it as soon as you remember.
• If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal.
• Don’t double up to make up for a missed dose.

What side effects can Ventolin (salbutamol) have?

Ventolin (salbutamol) helps treat asthma and COPD by easing breathing. Like all medicines, it can sometimes cause side effects. These don’t affect everyone and are usually mild.

When to Contact a Doctor

Speak to your doctor or asthma nurse if you have side effects that are severe, don’t go away, or feel uncomfortable. Let them know if you notice anything new or unusual.

Reporting Side Effects

You can also report side effects through the Yellow Card Scheme. This helps keep medicines safe for everyone.

By staying informed and checking in with your healthcare provider, you can use Ventolin safely and get the best results for your asthma or COPD.

What warnings and precautions come with Ventolin?

Ventolin (salbutamol) helps with asthma and COPD, but it’s not right for everyone. Speak to your doctor first to check it’s safe for you.

Important safety tips

• Only use Ventolin if it’s been prescribed to you.
• Don’t share your inhaler with anyone else.
• Try to avoid things that can make your breathing worse, like:
  • Pollen
  • Pet hair or dander
  • Mould
  • Dust
  • Smoke

By following your doctor’s advice and these simple steps, Ventolin can help you manage asthma or breathing problems more safely and effectively.

Who Should Use Caution with Ventolin?

Ventolin may not be safe for everyone. You should use caution if you:

• Are allergic to any of the ingredients. If you have lactose intolerance, the Accuhaler may be a better option.
• Have high blood pressure – speak to your doctor before using Ventolin.
• Have an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) – Ventolin might affect your condition. (Harrison & Tattersfield, 1984)
• Have heart problems, like angina or an irregular heartbeat – Ventolin can raise your heart rate. (Syed et al, 2021)
• Take other asthma or breathing medicines – some can interact with Ventolin and cause fast or uneven heartbeats. (Marques & Vale, 2022, Smyth et al, 1993, CUH NHS Trust, 2020)

Always give your doctor a full list of your medical conditions and any medicines you’re taking. This helps them decide if Ventolin is right for you.

Using Ventolin During Pregnancy or While Breastfeeding

Using your Ventolin inhaler (containing salbutamol) during pregnancy or while you're breastfeeding is generally safe. Salbutamol (a short-acting bronchodilator) is considered safe for both the mother and baby when used to relieve yourasthma symptoms.

• Pregnancy: If you’re pregnant, think you might be, or are planning a baby, speak to your doctor before using Ventolin. They’ll help you choose the safest option.
• Breastfeeding: Talk to your healthcare provider to check that using Ventolin is safe while you’re nursing.

Does Ventolin Affect Contraception?

No. As a bronchodilator used to treat asthma, Ventolin (salbutamol) does not affect how effective any type of contraception, including combined pills, progestogen-only pills, or emergency contraception are. It doesn't interact with hormonal contraceptives either. Additionally, there’s no evidence that Ventolin affects contraception. But it’s still a good idea to speak to your GP or prescriber before ordering it online if you are unsure about anything.

Can I Have Food, Alcohol or Coffee With Ventolin?

• Food and alcohol: These do not interact with Ventolin.
• Coffee: Both coffee and Ventolin are stimulants. Too much caffeine can make you feel shaky. If that happens, try cutting down on coffee.

For the safest results, always follow your doctor’s advice when using Ventolin. This makes sure it works well for your personal health needs.

We spoke to Irsalan Ahmed, an NHS Senior Clinical Pharmacist, to answer your most common questions about Ventolin (salbutamol), the popular asthma inhaler.

Read the full interview here: Pharmacist answers your questions about Ventolin.

Here are some of the most common questions our customers ask about Ventolin (salbutamol) inhalers:

Can you overdose on Ventolin?

Yes, Salbutamol, the active ingredient in Ventolin can be toxic if the recommended dosage is exceeded, causing serious health issues. Patients should not exceed the prescribed dose and should follow their healthcare provider's instructions.

Do you need a spacer for Ventolin?

Using a spacer is generally recommended when using a Ventolin (salbutamol) inhaler, particularly for children with asthma. It helps to deliver more of the medication to the lungs, reducing the amount that ends up in the mouth or throat, which can lead to experiencing mild side effects.

A spacer is a plastic tube that attaches to your Ventolin inhaler. It helps you get the full dose of medicine by making sure none is lost when you breathe in.

You attach the inhaler to one end of the spacer and breathe in through the other end, using either a mask or a mouthpiece.

When should you use a spacer?

• Helpful for children: Spacers are great for children who find it hard to use an inhaler on its own.
• Useful for adults too: Adults who find it tricky to use their inhaler properly can also benefit from using a spacer.
• For spray inhalers only: Spacers only work with standard spray inhalers (also called MDIs). You won’t need one if you use a dry powder or breath-activated inhaler.

You don’t always need a spacer, but it can help you get more benefit from your Ventolin inhaler.

Video Guide: How to Use a Spacer

Asthma + Lung UK has a helpful video that shows how to use a spacer with normal breathing. Watch it below for simple step-by-step instructions:

Can Ventolin help with hay fever?

No. Ventolin (salbutamol) is not a first-line treatment for hay fever, as a beta-2 agonist, it's primarily used to treat asthma. Although it can help to relax your airways and make breathing easier, particularly if your asthma attack is triggered by hay fever, Ventolin isn't designed to address the underlying allergic reaction of hay fever. To treat hay fever symptoms, it's generally recommended to choose antihistamines, nasal sprays and other treatments.

Thinking of using Ventolin for hay fever?

• Speak to your doctor: Only a healthcare professional can tell you if Ventolin is right for your symptoms.
• Consider other options: Antihistamines or nasal sprays may work better for sneezing, runny noses, or itchy eyes caused by hay fever.

Always follow medical advice to make sure you’re using the best treatment for your needs.

Does Ventolin contain steroids?

No. Ventolin does not contain steroids. Steroids for asthma (inhaled corticosteroids) work to reduce inflammation in the airways, they are used to control long term asthma. Ventolin is a "blue reliever" inhaler whereas steroid inhalers are typically used daily to prevent the symptoms of asthma.

• Check with your doctor: Make sure Ventolin is suitable for your condition before using it.

Ventolin provides fast relief from breathing issues without using steroids.

How can I tell if my asthma isn’t well controlled with Ventolin?

If your asthma isn't well controlled with a quick-relief inhaler like Ventolin, you could experience more severe or frequent symptoms. These could include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or a shortness of breath. Additionally, you may feel like Ventolin doesn't work as effectively as it used to work for you, or that you need to use your inhaler more often than before. A common sign of uncontrolled asthma is if you wake up at night because of your asthma symptoms or if you are experiencing asthma symptoms more than 3 times a week.

Asthma needs careful management. If any of the following happen, speak to your GP or asthma nurse to review your treatment:

Call a doctor urgently if:

• You still struggle to breathe after using Ventolin.
• Your chest feels tight and doesn't ease after taking your inhaler.
• Relief doesn’t last long: Symptoms come back in less than 4 hours.
• You're using it too often: More than 8 puffs a day is too much.

Book an asthma review if:

• You need Ventolin more often: This can be a sign your asthma is getting worse.
• Your symptoms limit your daily life: You can’t do usual tasks or activities.
• You're waking up at night: Asthma disturbs your sleep regularly.

Seeing your GP or asthma nurse can help improve your treatment plan. Regular reviews help keep asthma under control and reduce the risk of serious problems.

How long should a Ventolin inhaler last?

How long a Ventolin inhaler lasts depends on how often you use it. This usually relates to how severe your asthma is and how well it’s managed.

• Mild, well-controlled asthma: Your inhaler could last for several months.
• Severe or poorly controlled asthma: You might go through an inhaler in just a few weeks.

Storage conditions and expiry dates also affect how long your inhaler stays effective (Beat Asthma, 2022; NHS Grampian, 2023).

What should you do?

Your doctor or asthma nurse can advise you on the right dose and how often to use your inhaler. Regular check-ups and proper usage can help your Ventolin inhaler last longer and keep your asthma under control.

What are combination inhalers?

Combination inhalers are devices that consist of two types of asthma medication in one inhaler, a combination of a corticosteroid preventer and a long-acting bronchodilator. They reduce airway inflammation and help to keep your airways open to help you manage your asthma.

Key features:

Combination inhalers contain two medicines in one device:

• A preventer (corticosteroid) that reduces inflammation in your airways.
• A long-acting reliever (bronchodilator) that helps keep your airways open and eases symptoms like chest tightness and breathlessness.

Common combination inhalers include:

• Seretide
• Symbicort
• Fostair

Which inhaler is right for you?

Your doctor, asthma nurse, or pharmacist will recommend the best treatment based on your symptoms. This could be a reliever inhaler, preventer inhaler, combination inhaler, or another type of asthma medication.

Always follow medical advice to make sure you're using the right inhaler for your needs.

How many puffs of Ventolin are safe?

The safe number of Ventolin (salbutamol) puffs depends on your age and how severe your asthma is. These are general guidelines from the Ventolin Evohaler Patient Information Leaflet:

Adults and Teenagers (12 years and over):

• To relieve symptoms: 1 to 2 puffs when needed.
• To prevent symptoms: 2 puffs 10–15 minutes before exercise or triggers.
• Regular use: 2 puffs up to 4 times a day.
• Maximum dose: No more than 8 puffs in 24 hours.

Children under 12:

• To relieve symptoms: 1 puff (2 if needed).
• To prevent symptoms: 1 puff 10–15 minutes before exercise or triggers.
• Regular use: 2 puffs up to 4 times a day.
• Maximum dose: No more than 8 puffs in 24 hours.

Important: These are general recommendations. Always follow the advice of your doctor or asthma nurse.

If you or your child need the inhaler more often than recommended, your asthma may not be well controlled. Speak to your healthcare provider for a review.

What is the blue asthma inhaler?

The blue inhaler, often known as a Ventolin inhaler, is a type of reliever inhaler. It’s easily recognised by its blue casing and is used to give quick relief from asthma symptoms like chest tightness or shortness of breath.

How does the blue inhaler work?

• It contains salbutamol, a fast-acting medicine called a bronchodilator.
• Salbutamol helps by relaxing the muscles around your airways, making it easier to breathe.
• You can use it when symptoms start or during an asthma attack for immediate relief.

What is the difference between Ventolin Evohaler and Ventolin Accuhaler?

Both the Ventolin Evohaler and Ventolin Accuhaler help treat asthma by delivering salbutamol, a medicine that opens up your airways. However, they differ in dose, form, and how they’re used.

Ventolin Evohaler

• Salbutamol dose: 100 micrograms per puff.
• Spray type: Uses a propellant (HFA 134a) to deliver the medicine as a spray.
• Device: A pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI). You press and breathe in at the same time.

Ventolin Accuhaler

• Salbutamol dose: 200 micrograms per dose, mixed with lactose powder.
• Powder form: You breathe in the medicine through the device.
• Device: A dry powder inhaler (DPI). No need to press anything—just breathe in.

Key Differences

1. Strength: The Accuhaler gives double the dose per puff compared to the Evohaler.
2. Delivery: Evohaler uses a spray, while Accuhaler uses a powder.
3. Ease of use: The Accuhaler may be easier for people who struggle to use spray inhalers correctly.

Your doctor, asthma nurse, or pharmacist can help choose the right inhaler for you.

What is a Ventolin HFA Inhaler?

The Ventolin HFA inhaler is a quick-relief asthma treatment used during sudden breathing problems. It contains salbutamol (also called albuterol), which relaxes the muscles around your airways, making it easier to breathe.

• How it works: Salbutamol eases bronchospasm (tightened airways), helping relieve symptoms like wheezing and chest tightness.
• Fast relief: It starts working in minutes and lasts for 4 to 6 hours.
• Who it helps: Suitable for people with asthma who need quick relief from symptoms.

Always use Ventolin HFA exactly as your doctor or asthma nurse recommends to make sure it’s safe and works well for you.

What is the difference between Ventolin and Salamol inhalers?

Ventolin and Salamol are both inhalers that treat asthma and breathing difficulties. They contain the same active ingredient, salbutamol, but differ in branding:

• Ventolin: A well-known branded inhaler.
• Salamol: A generic version that works the same way and is often cheaper.

Both inhalers help open your airways and relieve symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise you on which one is right for you.

Can asthma go away?

Asthma symptoms can sometimes get better or disappear, especially as people get older. However, asthma usually doesn’t go away completely and often needs ongoing treatment to stay under control.

For more details, read our UK Meds blog: Can Asthma Go Away?. Always speak to your doctor for advice that’s right for you.

UK Meds is committed to providing you with the most accurate information possible regarding healthcare and lifestyle, as outlined in our Editorial Policy and Content Policy. We aim to regularly peer review and update our content as necessary to give you the most up-to-date medical information, helping you to be fully informed before starting a consultation with a registered prescriber for the treatment that you need.

Please note that our content is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Before starting any treatment or making any changes that could affect your lifestyle, you should always speak with your doctor, pharmacist or healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

Page Last Updated:

9th June 2025

• How to use a metered dose inhaler - Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• NHS - Salbutamol Inhaler (Ventolin)
• ScienceDirect - Salbutamol
• Patient.info - Salbutamol Inhaler (Ventolin, Airomir, Salamol, Salbulin)
• Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Partnership - Videos on YouTube
• BNF - Salbutamol
• GSK - Ventolin

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