General Drug Information and Indications

Albuterol HFA inhaler for bronchodilation in horses and small animals with respiratory disease. Short-acting beta-2 agonist bronchodilator (albuterol HFA inhaler). Mechanism: beta-2 receptor agonism → adenylyl cyclase activation → increased cAMP → bronchial smooth muscle relaxation. Rapid onset (5 min) via metered-dose inhaler. For acute bronchospasm rescue in horses and small animals with respiratory disease. Key information Albuterol inhaler — see albuterol entry. Shake well; prime before first use. Keep away from heat.

How to Give this Medication

Inhaled MDI: use appropriate equine or veterinary inhaler device (AeroHippus, AeroDawg). Shake well before each use. inhaler before use. Administer prescribed puffs during inspiration. Onset: 5–15 min. Store at room temperature; protect from light. Do not expose to heat. If a dose is missed Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next scheduled time, skip it.

Side Effects

Tachycardia, tremors, nervousness, sweating (sympathomimetic). Hypokalemia. Paradoxical bronchospasm (with excessive use). GI: nausea. Tolerance with prolonged overuse.

Precautions

For animals Avoid overuse — tolerance and paradoxical bronchospasm. Use with appropriate equine inhaler device. Monitor heart rate. Not for long-term maintenance without concurrent anti-inflammatory therapy. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Short-acting beta-2 agonist inhaler — avoid inhalation of aerosol (cardiovascular stimulant). Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian immediately. Albuterol overdose causes tachycardia, tremors, and hypokalemia.

Ventolin Hfa dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
VENTOLIN HFA 90 MCG/ ACTUATION INH AEROSOL: ALBUTEROL SULFATE90 MCGInj Susp1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)