Basic Proair Inhaler Information

Information Type	Details
Active Ingredient	Salbutamol (International Nonproprietary Name)
Brand Names	ProAir® HFA, Ventolin®, Respirol®, generic salbutamol
ATC Code	R03AC02 (Selective β2-adrenergic agonists)
Formats Available	Metered-dose inhaler (100-108 mcg per actuation)
Manufacturers	Teva Pharmaceuticals, GlaxoSmithKline (Ventolin®), various generics
Australian Registration	Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)-approved
Classification	Prescription-only (Rx) medicine

The Proair inhaler contains salbutamol, known internationally as the active bronchodilator ingredient in rescue inhalers. Identified medically by its ATC code R03AC02, this prescription medication falls into the category of fast-acting beta-agonists. Traditional packaging includes aluminium canisters providing 200 metered doses, featuring integrated dose counters to help patients track remaining medication. ProAir HFA has been discontinued by Teva Pharmaceuticals in Australia, though identical generic equivalents remain available nationwide. As a Schedule 4 poison, obtaining it requires a valid prescription under Australian pharmaceutical regulations.

Understanding Proair's Mechanism and Interactions

Proair works through targeted activation of beta2-adrenergic receptors in the lungs' bronchial muscles. When inhaled, salbutamol triggers relaxation of these muscles within 3-5 minutes, rapidly opening airways during asthma attacks. Therapeutic effects typically last 4-6 hours, suitable for acute symptom management. Metabolism occurs primarily in the liver through CYP450 enzymes.

The majority (76%) of unchanged salbutamol exits the body through renal excretion. Patients should exercise caution with combined use of certain antidepressants (MAOIs, TCAs) and diuretics, which may enhance cardiovascular risks or cause hypokalemia. While alcohol isn't strictly contraindicated, it might intensify side effects like tremors. Anyone experiencing irregular heartbeat should seek medical evaluation.

Medical Uses Across Patient Groups

Proair holds TGA approval for two primary respiratory indications:

• Acute asthma symptom relief: Rapid intervention during asthma attacks
• Exercise-induced bronchospasm prevention: Pre-treatment before physical activity

Special Populations Considerations

Off-label COPD usage occurs under specialist supervision for symptom management. Children aged ≥4 years follow identical dosing protocols to adults. During pregnancy, TGA classifies Proair as Category B1, indicating safety demonstrated in limited human studies. Usage requires careful benefit-risk assessment until further data confirms absolute safety. Geriatric patients require cardiac monitoring due to susceptibility to cardiovascular effects, without routine dosage modification.

Australian Availability Considerations

Following ProAir HFA's discontinuation by Teva, Australians access equivalent generic salbutamol inhalers containing identical medication formulations. Pharmacists can advise on comparable devices maintaining the standard 100-108mcg per dose deliverability. Prescriptive authorization remains mandatory nationwide - no emergency non-prescription supply exists legally despite medication urgency scenarios. Travellers must retain prescriptions and maintain devices within 15-25°C storage conditions.

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Using Your ProAir Inhaler: Dosage Guide

Understanding how to use your ProAir inhaler correctly ensures you get fast relief during asthma flare-ups. For an acute attack, take **2 inhalations immediately**, repeating every 4–6 hours if needed. To prevent exercise-induced wheezing, use **2 inhalations 15–30 minutes before activity**. Key points to remember: - The dose counter shows remaining medication; replace it when reaching zero. - Store your inhaler at **room temperature (15–25°C)** - avoid cars or bathrooms where heat or humidity could damage it. - If you miss a dose, **skip it and resume your next scheduled use**; never take extra puffs to compensate. Proper technique matters: Shake well, exhale fully, and inhale deeply while pressing the canister. --- ##

Safety Precautions and Warnings for ProAir

Not everyone can safely use ProAir. Avoid it entirely if you have allergies to salbutamol or any inhaler components. Severe reactions like **paradoxical bronchospasm** (sudden worsened breathing after use) or heart arrhythmias require urgent medical help. Common side effects include jitteriness, rapid heartbeat, and headaches - typically fading within an hour. Proceed cautiously with: - Heart conditions or thyroid disorders - Diabetes (monitor blood sugars; albuterol may elevate levels) - Low potassium (risk increases with overdose) Overdose signs include chest pain and severe tremors. Doctors may use beta-blockers to manage toxicity in emergencies. --- ##

What Patients Say About ProAir Inhalers

Australians praise ProAir for rapid symptom control, with many reporting relief **within five minutes** of use. Its compact size makes it easy to carry during activities like hiking or sports. Criticisms focus mainly on cost challenges and difficulties with **hand coordination during attacks**, particularly among older adults or arthritis sufferers. For consistent results: - Pair with a **spacer** for efficient dosing, especially for kids or those with shaky hands - Rinse your mouth after each use to prevent oral irritation Community forums note near-identical effectiveness between ProAir and Ventolin, with choices often coming down to prescription coverage preferences. --- ##

ProAir Alternatives and Cost Comparison in Australia

Comparing rescue inhalers helps manage asthma budgets. In Australia, PBS-listed options include: | Product | Average Cost | Key Features | Access & Notes | |-----------------|--------------|-----------------------------------|------------------------| | **Ventolin HFA**| $22 | Same active drug, colour variation | PBS-subsidised script | | **Xopenex HFA** | $49 | Reduced jitteriness | Privately prescribed | | **Generic brands** | $15–$18 | Shorter actuator design | Discount pharmacy chains | Concession-card holders save significantly; discuss brand-switching with your GP if facing affordability issues. Spacers can triple medication delivery efficiency for any brand used - ask pharmacists about free spacer programs.