Ventide

What is it?

A bronchodilator and anti- inflammatory which combines a selective 13-agonist and corticosteroid. Available as an aerosol delivering 100µg of salbutamol and 50µg of beciomethasone dipropionate per metered dose. Also, VENTIDE ROTACAPS available as clear/dark grey capsules containing 400µg of salbutamol as sulphate and 200µg of beclomethasone dipropionate in an inert lactose carrier, marked VENTIDE, for use with Rotahaler. Also, VENTIDE PAEDIATRIC ROTACAPS, clear/light grey capsules containing 200µg of salbutamol as sulphate and 100µg of beclomethasone dipropionate in an inert lactose carrier, for use with Rotahaler.

Medical Uses

Long-term treatment of asthma which requires inhaled bronchodilator and corticosteroid therapy.

Dosage

Adults, Ventide, 2 puffs 3 to 4 times each day; Ventide Rotacaps, 1 puff 3 to 4 times each day. Children, Ventide, 1 or 2 puffs 2, 3 or 4 times each day. Ventide Paediatric Rotacaps, 1 puff 2, 3 or 4 times each day.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, toxicity of thyroid gland, pulmonary tuberculosis, both active and inactive. Special care in patients changing from systemic steroids. Adrenal gland function must be checked and weight and height of children being treated longterm. Prolonged treatment increases the risk of systemic side effects and adrenal gland suppression. In conditions of stress or planned surgery, additional steroid treatment may be needed.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

F3-blockers.

Known Side Effects

Heart arrhythmias, dilation of peripheral blood vessels, hypersensitivity reactions, low blood potassium levels, headache, paradoxical bronchospasm, fine tremor, thrush infections of throat and mouth and hoarseness.