Ventolin (Salbutamol)

How to Order a Ventolin (Blue) Inhaler Online

If you need fast-acting relief for asthma or other breathing conditions, you can order a Ventolin inhaler online through a trusted UK service like UK Meds. Simply:

1. Select the type you need - either the Ventolin Evohaler or Ventolin Accuhaler.
2. Complete a short online health consultation.
3. If approved by a registered independent prescriber, your inhaler will be delivered directly to your door.

This process is quick, safe, and fully regulated. All prescriptions are assessed by qualified healthcare professionals to ensure your treatment is appropriate.

Subscription Options

To make things even easier, UK Meds offers a Ventolin subscription service. This means you can receive your inhaler regularly without needing to reorder every time. It’s a convenient way to ensure you’re always prepared, while saving money on repeat orders.

Do You Need a Prescription for Ventolin?

Yes. In the UK, Ventolin (Salbutamol) is a prescription-only medication.

Can I Get a Ventolin Inhaler Over the Counter?

No. You cannot purchase it over the counter. Whether through your GP or an online service like UK Meds, a valid prescription is required before you can get it.

Online providers like UK Meds allow you to complete a health assessment, and if suitable, a prescription will be issued by a registered prescriber. The inhaler is then dispensed by a UK-registered pharmacy.

Is It Legal to Buy Ventolin Online?

Yes, buying Ventolin online is legal in the UK when done through a regulated provider. As long as you complete a consultation and it is approved by a prescriber, the medication can be dispensed and delivered to you. UK Meds ensures all treatments are issued legally, safely, and efficiently.

How Does UK Meds Compare to High Street Retailers?

Ventolin is available from high street pharmacies like:

• Boots / Superdrug / Asda: Stock Ventolin, but may cost more for single inhalers.

• Amazon / Tesco: Do not currently sell prescription inhalers.

However, UK Meds often offers better prices and multi-buy savings. 

For a fast, safe and reliable way to get your Ventolin inhaler, choose UK Meds. Every order includes a free consultation, and all medications are dispensed by UK-regulated pharmacies following prescriber approval.

Choose the Best Delivery Options

Decide on the best discreet delivery option for your order below.

Please note: Delivery options and pricing are subject to change. For the latest information on UK Meds delivery options please visit our delivery page to learn more. You can also read our other policies including our returns process.

Choose the best cost option for you:

Starting prices for both Evohaler and Accuhaler.
Strengths available: 100mcg and 200mcg

Please note: Pricing is subject to change. For the latest information please refer to the consultation section at the top of the product information page. 

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.

A doctor provides a simple explanation of Ventolin (salbutamol), a bronchodilator often prescribed for asthma and COPD. Get a better idea of what it is, how it works, and when it is used.

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.

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 take a Ventolin inhaler?

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.

• 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.

Ventolin (salbutamol) is widely used to relieve asthma and COPD symptoms. Like all medicines, it may cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Most are mild, but some may require medical attention.

When to Speak to a Doctor

If you experience side effects that are severe, persistent or concerning, contact your doctor or asthma nurse. Even mild symptoms can sometimes need adjusting your treatment plan.

Reporting Side Effects

You can report suspected side effects using the Yellow Card Scheme. This helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Staying informed and reviewing your symptoms with a healthcare provider ensures safe and effective use of Ventolin for asthma or COPD.

Is Ventolin (Salbutamol) Safe for Everyone?

Ventolin is a commonly prescribed inhaler for asthma and COPD, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Always speak to your doctor before starting treatment to make sure it’s safe for you.

Essential Safety Advice

• Only use Ventolin if it has been prescribed to you.
• Do not share your inhaler with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
• Try to avoid common asthma triggers such as:
  • Pollen
  • Pet dander
  • Mould
  • Dust
  • Smoke

Following your healthcare provider’s instructions helps ensure Ventolin is used safely and effectively.

Who Should Be Cautious When Using Ventolin?

Certain medical conditions may affect whether Ventolin is safe for you. Take extra care and inform your doctor if you:

• Are allergic to salbutamol or any of the inhaler’s ingredients. If you're lactose intolerant, the Accuhaler may be more suitable.
• Have high blood pressure - salbutamol can slightly raise blood pressure in some people.
• Have an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) - Ventolin may increase symptoms (Harrison & Tattersfield, 1984).
• Have heart problems, such as angina or irregular heartbeat - Ventolin may increase heart rate (Syed et al., 2021).
• Take other asthma or breathing medicines - combining treatments can sometimes lead to heart palpitations or interactions (Marques & Vale, 2022; Smyth et al., 1993; CUH NHS Trust, 2020).

Always provide a full medical history and list of medications to your doctor to ensure Ventolin is appropriate for you.

Ventolin During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Ventolin is generally considered safe during both pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it helps manage breathing difficulties without known risks to mother or baby.

• Pregnancy: If you’re pregnant or planning to conceive, speak to your doctor for personalised guidance.
• Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider to confirm it’s safe for you while nursing.

Does Ventolin Affect Contraception?

No, Ventolin does not impact the effectiveness of contraception, including hormonal methods like the combined pill, progestogen-only pill, or emergency contraception. However, if you have concerns, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Can I Eat, Drink or Have Caffeine with Ventolin?

• Food and alcohol: These do not interfere with Ventolin use.
• Coffee: Both coffee and Ventolin are stimulants. If you feel jittery or shaky, try reducing your caffeine intake.

For the best results, always follow your prescriber’s instructions. This helps ensure Ventolin is both safe and effective for your specific 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, taking too much Ventolin (salbutamol) can be dangerous and may cause serious side effects. Always follow the dose prescribed by your healthcare provider. For more details, read: Can You Overdose on Ventolin?

Do You Need a Spacer for Ventolin?

Using a spacer with your Ventolin inhaler can help deliver more medicine to the lungs, especially for children or anyone who finds inhalers difficult to use. Spacers are only needed with metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), not with dry powder inhalers like the Accuhaler.

Spacers attach to your inhaler and help you inhale the medicine more effectively. They’re useful for children and adults alike.

Video Guide

Watch how to use a spacer correctly with this helpful video from Asthma + Lung UK:

Can Ventolin Help with Hay Fever?

Ventolin is not a treatment for hay fever. It can help with breathing problems triggered by allergies, but it doesn’t treat the cause of hay fever. For sneezing, itchy eyes or a runny nose, antihistamines and nasal sprays are usually more effective.

Does Ventolin Contain Steroids?

No. Ventolin does not contain steroids. It is a short-acting bronchodilator used to relieve symptoms quickly (which is why it can be referred to as a "blue reliever" inhaler), whereas steroid inhalers (preventers) are used daily to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms from returning.

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 Do I Know If My Asthma Isn’t Well Controlled?

Signs your asthma may be poorly controlled include needing Ventolin more than 3 times a week, waking up at night due to symptoms, or noticing that it doesn’t work as well as before. Speak to your GP or asthma nurse about an asthma review if:

• You’re using your inhaler more than 8 puffs per day
• Your symptoms return quickly after using it
• Daily activities or sleep are affected

How Long Should a Ventolin Inhaler Last?

It depends on how often you use it. If your asthma is well controlled, it may last for several months. In more severe cases, it could be used up in weeks. Always check the expiry date and storage conditions. Sources: Beat Asthma, NHS Grampian.

What Are Combination Inhalers?

Combination inhalers contain both a corticosteroid (preventer) and a long-acting bronchodilator (reliever) to reduce inflammation and keep airways open. Common options include:

• Seretide
• Symbicort
• Fostair

Your doctor will help choose the best inhaler based on your symptoms and treatment needs.

How Many Puffs of Ventolin Are Safe?

Always follow your doctor's instructions, but general guidelines include:

Adults & Teens (12+):

• 1–2 puffs when needed
• 2 puffs before exercise or known triggers
• No more than 8 puffs in 24 hours

Children (under 12):

• 1 puff when needed (2 if necessary)
• 2 puffs before activity or exposure
• Maximum 8 puffs per day

What Is the Blue Asthma Inhaler?

The blue inhaler is a reliever inhaler, usually Ventolin. It contains salbutamol, which relaxes the muscles around the airways to provide quick relief from asthma symptoms like breathlessness or chest tightness.

What’s the Difference Between Ventolin Evohaler and Ventolin Accuhaler?

Both deliver salbutamol but in different forms:

• Evohaler: A metered-dose spray inhaler (100 mcg per puff)
• Accuhaler: A dry powder inhaler (200 mcg per dose)

The Accuhaler may be easier for people who struggle to coordinate breathing with pressing the device. See full comparison: Evohaler vs Accuhaler.

What Is a Ventolin HFA Inhaler?

The Ventolin HFA inhaler is a fast-acting reliever for asthma symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. It contains salbutamol and starts working within minutes, lasting 4 to 6 hours.

What’s the Difference Between Ventolin and Salamol?

Both Ventolin and Salamol contain the same active ingredient (salbutamol). Ventolin is a well-known brand, while Salamol is a more affordable generic option. Both work the same way, your doctor or pharmacist can help you choose the right one.

Can Asthma Go Away?

Asthma symptoms may improve over time, especially in adulthood, but asthma usually requires long-term management. Learn more in our article: Can Asthma Go Away?

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:

14th July 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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