Ventolin Patient Counseling Information

Use and Handling: Evohaler: Testing your inhaler: Before using for the first time, remove the mouthpiece cover by gently squeezing the sides of the cover, shake the inhaler well, and release two puffs into the air to make sure that it works. If it has not been used for 5 days or more, shake it well and release 2 puffs into the air to make sure that it works.
Using your inhaler: 1. Remove the mouthpiece cover by gently squeezing the sides of the cover.
2. Check inside and outside of the inhaler including the mouthpiece for the presence of loose objects.
3. Shake the inhaler well to ensure that any loose objects are removed and that the contents of the inhaler are evenly mixed.
4. Hold the inhaler upright between fingers and thumb with your thumb on the base, below the mouthpiece.
5. Breathe out as far as is comfortable and then place the mouthpiece in your mouth between your teeth and close your lips around it but do not bite it.
6. Just after starting to breathe in through your mouth press down on the top of the inhaler to release VENTOLIN while still breathing in steadily and deeply.
7. While holding your breath, take the inhaler from your mouth and take your finger from the top of the inhaler. Continue holding your breath for as long as is comfortable.
8. If you are to take further puffs keep the inhaler upright and wait about half a minute before repeating steps three to seven.
9. Replace the mouthpiece cover by firmly pushing and snapping the cap into position.
Important: Do not rush Stages 5, 6 and 7. It is important that you start to breathe in as slowly as possible just before operating your Inhaler.
Practise in front of a mirror for the first few times. If you see 'mist' coming from the top of the inhaler or the sides of your mouth you should start again from stage two.
If your doctor has given you different instructions for using your inhaler, please follow them carefully. Tell your doctor if you have any difficulties.
Cleaning: Your inhaler should be cleaned at least once a week.
1. Remove the metal canister from the plastic casing of the inhaler and remove the mouthpiece cover.
2. Rinse the actuator thoroughly under warm running water.
3. Dry the actuator THOROUGHLY inside and out.
4. Replace the metal canister and mouthpiece cover.
DO NOT PUT THE METAL CANISTER INTO WATER.