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VENTOLIN

albuterol sulfate · Aerosol, Metered

Prescription NDA TE AB3 RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
VENTOLIN HFA
Generic name
albuterol sulfate
Dosage form
Aerosol, Metered
Route
Respiratory (Inhalation)
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
REMEDYREPACK INC.
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
1
NDC product codes
7
Packages
9
Data completeness
83% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Albuterol Sulfate 90 ug/1 630208 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Aerosol, Metered
Route of administration
Respiratory (Inhalation)
Presentations
16

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Adrenergic beta2-Agonists [MoA] MoA All 37 members
beta2-Adrenergic Agonist [EPC] EPC All 37 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
020983
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
April 19, 2001
Sponsor
GLAXOSMITHKLINE
Products on application
1
Submissions recorded
18
Products approved under application 020983.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
020983-001 VENTOLIN HFA AEROSOL, METERED ALBUTEROL SULFATE Prescription AB3 RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AB3
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 020983.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 41 Labeling Approved August 18, 2021 Standard
Supplement 36 Labeling Approved December 16, 2019 Standard
Supplement 34 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved August 14, 2015 Standard
Supplement 33 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved January 12, 2015 Standard
Supplement 32 Labeling Approved December 19, 2014 Standard
Supplement 31 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 17, 2014 Standard
Supplement 29 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved January 21, 2014 Standard
Supplement 30 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved January 3, 2014 Standard
Supplement 27 Labeling Approved September 6, 2012 Unknown
Supplement 13 Approved August 27, 2008 Unknown
Supplement 16 Efficacy Approved March 26, 2008 Priority
Supplement 10 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved March 17, 2006 N/A
Supplement 9 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved April 19, 2005 Standard
Supplement 5 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved September 10, 2002 Standard
Supplement 3 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved March 4, 2002 Standard
Supplement 2 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved October 25, 2001 Standard
Supplement 1 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved July 9, 2001 Standard
Original application 1 Type 3 - New Dosage Form Approved April 19, 2001 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · August 19, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · August 19, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · December 19, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · December 17, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · January 9, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · December 23, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · September 11, 2012
  • 0 · Supplement · September 7, 2012
  • 0 · Supplement · February 14, 2012
  • 0 · Supplement · August 27, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · August 27, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · August 27, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · August 27, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · August 27, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · April 2, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · March 27, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · April 28, 2005
  • 0 · Supplement · April 28, 2005
  • 0 · Original application · April 19, 2001
  • 0 · Original application · April 19, 2001
  • 0 · Original application · April 19, 2001
  • 0 · Supplement · January 1, 1900
  • 0 · Supplement · January 1, 1900
  • 0 · Supplement · January 1, 1900

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20240426). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20240426 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20231001

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE VENTOLIN HFA is a beta 2 -adrenergic agonist indicated for: • Treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adult and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older with reversible obstructive airway disease. ( 1.1 ) • Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm in adult and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Bronchospasm VENTOLIN HFA is indicated for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adult and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older with reversible obstructive airway disease. 1.2 Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm VENTOLIN HFA is indicated for the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm in adult and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older.

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Administer VENTOLIN HFA by oral inhalation only. Shake VENTOLIN HFA well before each spray. FOR ORAL INHALATION ONLY. • Treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adults and children 4 years of age and older: 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours. For some patients, 1 inhalation every 4 hours may be sufficient. (2.1) • Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm in adults and children 4 years of age and older: 2 inhalations 15 to 30 minutes before exercise. (2.2) • Priming information: Prime VENTOLIN HFA before using for the first time, when the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks, or when the inhaler has been dropped. To prime VENTOLIN HFA, release 4 sprays into the air away from the face, shaking well before each spray. (2.3) • Cleaning information: At least once a week, wash the actuator with warm water and let it air-dry completely. (2.3) 2.1 Bronchospasm For treatment of acute episodes of bronchospasm or prevention of symptoms associated with bronchospasm, the usual dosage for adults and children is 2 inhalations repeated every 4 to 6 hours; in some patients, 1 inhalation every 4 hours may be sufficient. More frequent administration or a larger number of inhalations is not recommended. 2.2 Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm The usual dosage for adults and children 4 years of age and older is 2 inhalations 15 to 30 minutes before exercise. 2.3 Administration Information Priming: Priming VENTOLIN HFA is essential to ensure appropriate albuterol content in each actuation. Prime VENTOLIN HFA before using for the first time, when the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks, or when the inhaler has been dropped. To prime VENTOLIN HFA, release 4 sprays into the air away from the face, shaking well before each spray. Cleaning: To ensure proper dosing and to prevent actuator orifice blockage, wash the actuator with warm water and let it air-dry completely at least once a week. Dose Counter: VENTOLIN HFA has a dose counter attached to the canister that starts at 204 or 64 and counts down each time a spray is released [see Dosage Forms and Strengths (3)] . When the counter reads 020, the patient should contact the pharmacist for a refill of medication or consult the physician to determine whether a prescription refill is needed. VENTOLIN HFA comes in a moisture-protective foil pouch, which should be removed prior to use. Discard VENTOLIN HFA when the counter reads 000 or 12 months after removal from the moisture-protective foil pouch, whichever comes first [see Dosage Forms and Strengths (3)] . See Patient Information tear-off leaflet for instructions on how to prime and clean the inhaler to ensure proper dosing and to prevent actuator orifice blockage.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS VENTOLIN HFA is an inhalation aerosol. Each actuation contains 108 mcg albuterol sulfate (90 mcg albuterol base) from the mouthpiece. VENTOLIN HFA is supplied as an 18-g pressurized aluminum canister with dose counter fitted with a blue plastic actuator and a blue strapcap; this canister contains 200 actuations. VENTOLIN HFA is also supplied as an 8-g pressurized aluminum canister with dose counter fitted with a blue plastic actuator and a blue strapcap; this canister contains 60 actuations. Inhalation aerosol: 108 mcg albuterol sulfate (90 mcg albuterol base) from mouthpiece per actuation. Supplied in 18-g canister containing 200 actuations and 8-g canister containing 60 actuations. (3)

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS VENTOLIN HFA is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to albuterol or any other components of VENTOLIN HFA. Rare cases of hypersensitivity reactions, including urticaria, angioedema, and rash have been reported after the use of albuterol sulfate. Hypersensitivity to albuterol sulfate or any of the ingredients of VENTOLIN HFA. (4)

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Life-threatening paradoxical bronchospasm may occur. Discontinue VENTOLIN HFA immediately and institute alternative therapy. ( 5.1 ) • Need for more doses of VENTOLIN HFA than usual may be a sign of deterioration of asthma and requires reevaluation of treatment. ( 5.2 ) • VENTOLIN HFA is not a substitute for corticosteroids. ( 5.3 ) • Cardiovascular effects may occur. Use with caution in patients sensitive to sympathomimetic drugs and patients with cardiovascular or convulsive disorders. ( 5.4 , 5.7 ) • Excessive use may be fatal. Do not exceed recommended dose. ( 5.5 ) • Immediate hypersensitivity reactions may occur. Discontinue VENTOLIN HFA immediately. ( 5.6 ) • Hypokalemia and changes in blood glucose may occur. ( 5.7 , 5.8 ) 5.1 Paradoxical Bronchospasm VENTOLIN HFA can produce paradoxical bronchospasm, which may be life threatening. If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs following dosing with VENTOLIN HFA, it should be discontinued immediately and alternative therapy should be instituted. It should be recognized that paradoxical bronchospasm, when associated with inhaled formulations, frequently occurs with the first use of a new canister. 5.2 Deterioration of Asthma Asthma may deteriorate acutely over a period of hours or chronically over several days or longer. If the patient needs more doses of VENTOLIN HFA than usual, this may be a marker of destabilization of asthma and requires reevaluation of the patient and treatment regimen, giving special consideration to the possible need for anti-inflammatory treatment, e.g., corticosteroids. 5.3 Use of Anti-inflammatory Agents The use of beta-adrenergic agonist bronchodilators alone may not be adequate to control asthma in many patients. Early consideration should be given to adding anti-inflammatory agents, e.g., corticosteroids, to the therapeutic regimen. 5.4 Cardiovascular Effects VENTOLIN HFA, like all other beta 2 -adrenergic agonists, can produce clinically significant cardiovascular effects in some patients such as changes in pulse rate or blood pressure. If such effects occur, VENTOLIN HFA may need to be discontinued. In addition, beta-agonists have been reported to produce electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, such as flattening of the T wave, prolongation of the QTc interval, and ST segment depression. The clinical relevance of these findings is unknown. Therefore, VENTOLIN HFA, like all other sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with underlying cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension. 5.5 Do Not Exceed Recommended Dose Fatalities have been reported in association with excessive use of inhaled sympathomimetic drugs in patients with asthma. The exact cause of death is unknown, but cardiac arrest following an unexpected development of a severe acute asthmatic crisis and subsequent hypoxia is suspected. 5.6 Hypersensitivity Reactions, including Anaphylaxis Immediate hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., urticaria, angioedema, rash, bronchospasm, hypotension), including anaphylaxis, may occur after administration of VENTOLIN HFA [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . 5.7 Coexisting Conditions VENTOLIN HFA, like other sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with convulsive disorders, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes mellitus and in patients who are unusually responsive to sympathomimetic amines. Large doses of intravenous albuterol have been reported to aggravate preexisting diabetes mellitus and ketoacidosis. 5.8 Hypokalemia Beta-adrenergic agonist medicines may produce significant hypokalemia in some patients, possibly through intracellular shunting, which has the potential to produce adverse cardiovascular effects [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.1 )] . The decrease in serum potassium is usually transient, not requiring supplementation.

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS Use of VENTOLIN HFA may be associated with the following: • Paradoxical bronchospasm [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] • Cardiovascular effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] • Immediate hypersensitivity reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)] • Hypokalemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥3%) are throat irritation, viral respiratory infections, upper respiratory inflammation, cough, and musculoskeletal pain. (6) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact GlaxoSmithKline at 1-888-825-5249 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience The safety data described below reflects exposure to VENTOLIN HFA in 248 patients treated with VENTOLIN HFA in 3 placebo-controlled clinical trials of 2 to 12 weeks’ duration. The data from adults and adolescents is based upon 2 clinical trials in which 202 patients with asthma 12 years of age and older were treated with VENTOLIN HFA 2 inhalations 4 times daily for 12 weeks’ duration. The adult/adolescent population was 92 female, 110 male and 163 white, 19 black, 18 Hispanic, 2 other. The data from pediatric patients are based upon 1 clinical trial in which 46 patients with asthma 4 to 11 years of age were treated with VENTOLIN HFA 2 inhalations 4 times daily for 2 weeks’ duration. The population was 21 female, 25 male and 25 white, 17 black, 3 Hispanic, 1 other. Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Adults and Adolescents 12 Years of Age and Older: The two 12-week, randomized, double-blind studies in 610 adolescent and adult patients with asthma that compared VENTOLIN HFA, a CFC 11/12-propelled albuterol inhaler, and an HFA-134a placebo inhaler. Overall, the incidence and nature of the adverse reactions reported for VENTOLIN HFA and a CFC 11/12-propelled albuterol inhaler were comparable. Table 1 lists the incidence of all adverse reactions (whether considered by the investigator to be related or unrelated to drug) from these studies that occurred at a rate of 3% or greater in the group treated with VENTOLIN HFA and more frequently in the group treated with VENTOLIN HFA than in the HFA-134a placebo inhaler group. Table 1. Overall Adverse Reactions With ≥3% Incidence in 2 Large 12-Week Clinical Trials in Adolescents and Adults a Adverse Reaction Percent of Patients VENTOLIN HFA (n = 202) % CFC 11/12-Propelled Albuterol Inhaler (n = 207) % Placebo HFA-134a (n = 201) % Ear, nose, and throat Throat irritation 10 6 7 Upper respiratory inflammation 5 5 2 Lower respiratory Viral respiratory infections 7 4 4 Cough 5 2 2 Musculoskeletal Musculoskeletal pain 5 5 4 a This table includes all adverse reactions (whether considered by the investigator to be drug-related or unrelated to drug) that occurred at an incidence rate of at least 3.0% in the group treated with VENTOLIN HFA and more frequently in the group treated with VENTOLIN HFA than in the HFA-134a placebo inhaler group. Adverse reactions reported by less than 3% of the adolescent and adult patients receiving VENTOLIN HFA and by a greater proportion of patients receiving VENTOLIN HFA than receiving HFA-134a placebo inhaler and that have the potential to be related to VENTOLIN HFA include diarrhea, laryngitis, oropharyngeal edema, cough, lung disorders, tachycardia, and extrasystoles. Palpitation and dizziness have also been observed with VENTOLIN HFA. Pediatric Patients: Results from the 2-week pediatric clinical study in patients with asthma 4 to 11 years of age showed that this pediatric population had an adverse reaction profile similar to that of the adolescent and adult populations. Three studies have been conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of VENTOLIN HFA in patients between birth and 4 years …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Other short-acting sympathomimetic aerosol bronchodilators should not be used concomitantly with albuterol. If additional adrenergic drugs are to be administered by any route, they should be used with caution to avoid deleterious cardiovascular effects. • Beta-blockers: May block bronchodilatory effects of beta-agonists and produce severe bronchospasm. Patients with asthma should not normally be treated with beta-blockers. (7.1) • Diuretics: Electrocardiographic changes and/or hypokalemia associated with diuretics may worsen with concomitant beta-agonists. Consider monitoring potassium levels. (7.2) • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOs) or tricyclic antidepressants: May potentiate effect of albuterol on the vascular system. Consider alternative therapy in patients taking MAOs or tricyclic antidepressants. (7.4) 7.1 Beta-Blockers Beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents not only block the pulmonary effect of beta-agonists, such as VENTOLIN HFA, but may produce severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma. Therefore, patients with asthma should not normally be treated with beta-blockers. However, under certain circumstances, e.g., as prophylaxis after myocardial infarction, there may be no acceptable alternatives to the use of beta-adrenergic blocking agents in patients with asthma. In this setting, cardioselective beta-blockers should be considered, although they should be administered with caution. 7.2 Diuretics The ECG changes and/or hypokalemia that may result from the administration of nonpotassium-sparing diuretics (such as loop or thiazide diuretics) can be acutely worsened by beta-agonists, especially when the recommended dose of the beta-agonist is exceeded. Although the clinical relevance of these effects is not known, caution is advised in the coadministration of beta-agonists with nonpotassium-sparing diuretics. Consider monitoring potassium levels. 7.3 Digoxin Mean decreases of 16% to 22% in serum digoxin levels were demonstrated after single-dose intravenous and oral administration of albuterol, respectively, to normal volunteers who had received digoxin for 10 days. The clinical relevance of these findings for patients with obstructive airway disease who are receiving inhaled albuterol and digoxin on a chronic basis is unclear. Nevertheless, it would be prudent to carefully evaluate the serum digoxin levels in patients who are currently receiving digoxin and albuterol. 7.4 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors or Tricyclic Antidepressants VENTOLIN HFA should be administered with extreme caution to patients being treated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, or within 2 weeks of discontinuation of such agents, because the action of albuterol on the vascular system may be potentiated. Consider alternative therapy in patients taking MAOs or tricyclic antidepressants.

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to asthma medications during pregnancy. For more information, contact the MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies conducted by the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists at 1‐877-311-8972 or visit https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/asthma. Risk Summary There are no randomized clinical studies of use of albuterol sulfate during pregnancy. Available data from epidemiological studies and postmarketing case reports of pregnancy outcomes following inhaled albuterol use do not consistently demonstrate a risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. There are, however, clinical considerations in pregnant women with asthma. (See Clinical Considerations.) Administration of VENTOLIN HFA to mice and rabbits during the period of organogenesis revealed evidence of adverse developmental outcomes (cleft palate in mice, delayed ossification in rabbits) at less than the maximum recommended human daily inhaled dose (MRHDID). (See Data.) The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population(s) is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryofetal Risk: In women with poorly or moderately controlled asthma, there is an increased risk of several perinatal adverse outcomes such as preeclampsia in the mother and prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age in the neonate. Pregnant women with asthma should be closely monitored and medication adjusted as necessary to maintain optimal asthma control. Labor or Delivery: Because of the potential for beta-agonist interference with uterine contractility, use of VENTOLIN HFA during labor should be restricted to those patients in whom the benefits clearly outweigh the risk. VENTOLIN HFA has not been approved for the management of pre-term labor. Serious adverse reactions, including pulmonary edema, have been reported during or following treatment of premature labor with beta 2 -agonists, including albuterol. Data Human Data: While available studies cannot definitively establish the absence of risk, published data from epidemiological studies and case reports have not consistently demonstrated an association with use of VENTOLIN HFA during pregnancy and major birth defects, specific birth defects, or miscarriage. The available studies have methodologic limitations, including inconsistent comparator groups, definitions of outcomes, and assessment of disease impact. Animal Data: In a study in pregnant mice, subcutaneously administered albuterol sulfate produced cleft palate formation in 5 of 111 (4.5%) fetuses at an exposure less than the MRHDID for adults (on a mg/m 2 basis at a maternal dose of 0.25 mg/kg) and in 10 of 108 (9.3%) fetuses at approximately 9 times the MRHDID (on a mg/m 2 basis at a maternal dose of 2.5 mg/kg). Cleft palate also occurred in 22 of 72 (30.5%) fetuses from females treated subcutaneously with isoproterenol, another beta 2 -agonist. In a study in pregnant rabbits, orally administered albuterol sulfate produced cranioschisis in 7 of 19 fetuses (37%) at approximately 750 times the MRHDID (on a mg/m 2 basis at a maternal dose of 50 mg/kg). In a study in pregnant rabbits, an albuterol/HFA-134a formulation administered by inhalation produced enlargement of the frontal portion of the fetal fontanelles at approximately one third of the MRHDID on a mg/m 2 basis. A study in which pregnant rats were dosed with radiolabeled albuterol sulfate demonstrated that drug-related material is transferred from the maternal circulation to the fetus. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no available data on the presence of albuterol or the components of VENTOLIN HFA in human milk, the effect …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action In vitro studies and in vivo pharmacologic studies have demonstrated that albuterol has a preferential effect on beta 2 -adrenergic receptors compared with isoproterenol. Although beta 2 -adrenoceptors are the predominant adrenergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle and beta 1 -adrenoceptors are the predominant receptors in the heart, there are also beta 2 -adrenoceptors in the human heart comprising 10% to 50% of the total beta-adrenoceptors. The precise function of these receptors has not been established, but their presence raises the possibility that even selective beta 2 -agonists may have cardiac effects. Activation of beta 2 -adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle leads to the activation of adenyl cyclase and to an increase in the intracellular concentration of cyclic-3′,5′-adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP). This increase of cyclic AMP leads to the activation of protein kinase A, which inhibits the phosphorylation of myosin and lowers intracellular ionic calcium concentrations, resulting in relaxation. Albuterol relaxes the smooth muscles of all airways, from the trachea to the terminal bronchioles. Albuterol acts as a functional antagonist to relax the airway irrespective of the spasmogen involved, thus protecting against all bronchoconstrictor challenges. Increased cyclic AMP concentrations are also associated with the inhibition of release of mediators from mast cells in the airway. Albuterol has been shown in most controlled clinical trials to have more effect on the respiratory tract, in the form of bronchial smooth muscle relaxation, than isoproterenol at comparable doses while producing fewer cardiovascular effects. Controlled clinical studies and other clinical experience have shown that inhaled albuterol, like other beta-adrenergic agonist drugs, can produce a significant cardiovascular effect in some patients, as measured by pulse rate, blood pressure, symptoms, and/or electrocardiographic changes [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] .

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION The active component of VENTOLIN HFA is albuterol sulfate, USP, the racemic form of albuterol and a relatively selective beta 2 -adrenergic bronchodilator. Albuterol sulfate has the chemical name α 1 -[( tert -butylamino)methyl]-4-hydroxy- m -xylene-α, α′-diol sulfate (2:1)(salt) and the following chemical structure: Albuterol sulfate is a white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 576.7, and the empirical formula is (C 13 H 21 NO 3 ) 2 •H 2 SO 4 . It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. The World Health Organization recommended name for albuterol base is salbutamol. VENTOLIN HFA is a pressurized metered-dose aerosol unit fitted with a counter. VENTOLIN HFA is intended for oral inhalation only. Each unit contains a microcrystalline suspension of albuterol sulfate in propellant HFA-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane). It contains no other excipients. Priming VENTOLIN HFA is essential to ensure appropriate albuterol content in each actuation. To prime the inhaler, release 4 sprays into the air away from the face, shaking well before each spray. The inhaler should be primed before using it for the first time, when it has not been used for more than 2 weeks, or when it has been dropped. After priming, each actuation of the inhaler delivers 120 mcg of albuterol sulfate, USP in 75 mg of suspension from the valve and 108 mcg of albuterol sulfate, USP from the mouthpiece (equivalent to 90 mcg of albuterol base from the mouthpiece). Each 18-g canister provides 200 inhalations. Each 8-g canister provides 60 inhalations. This product does not contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as the propellant. Chemical structure

10 OVERDOSAGE The expected symptoms with overdosage are those of excessive beta-adrenergic stimulation and/or occurrence or exaggeration of any of the symptoms listed under ADVERSE REACTIONS, e.g., seizures, angina, hypertension or hypotension, tachycardia with rates up to 200 beats/min, arrhythmias, nervousness, headache, tremor, dry mouth, palpitation, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, malaise, sleeplessness. Hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis may also occur. As with all sympathomimetic aerosol medications, cardiac arrest and even death may be associated with abuse of VENTOLIN HFA. Treatment consists of discontinuation of VENTOLIN HFA together with appropriate symptomatic therapy. The judicious use of a cardioselective beta-receptor blocker may be considered, bearing in mind that such medication can produce bronchospasm. There is insufficient evidence to determine if dialysis is beneficial for overdosage of VENTOLIN HFA. The oral median lethal dose of albuterol sulfate in mice is greater than 2,000 mg/kg (approximately 6,800 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for adults on a mg/m 2 basis and approximately 3,200 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for children on a mg/m 2 basis). In mature rats, the subcutaneous median lethal dose of albuterol sulfate is approximately 450 mg/kg (approximately 3,000 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for adults on a mg/m 2 basis and approximately 1,400 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for children on a mg/m 2 basis). In young rats, the subcutaneous median lethal dose is approximately 2,000 mg/kg (approximately 14,000 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for adults on a mg/m 2 basis and approximately 6,400 times the maximum recommended daily inhalation dose for children on a mg/m 2 basis). The inhalation median lethal dose has not been determined in animals.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING VENTOLIN HFA (albuterol sulfate) Inhalation Aerosol is supplied in the following packs as a pressurized aluminum canister fitted with a counter with a blue plastic actuator and a blue strapcap packaged within a moisture-protective foil pouch that also contains a desiccant: NDC 63187-026-08 8-g institutional pack canister containing 60 actuations Before using, VENTOLIN HFA should be removed from the moisture-protective foil pouch. The pouch and desiccant should be discarded. VENTOLIN HFA should be discarded 12 months after removal from the pouch. Priming VENTOLIN HFA is essential to ensure appropriate albuterol content in each actuation. To prime the inhaler, release 4 sprays into the air away from the face, shaking well before each spray. The inhaler should be primed before using it for the first time, when the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks, or when it has been dropped. After priming, each actuation delivers 120 mcg of albuterol sulfate, USP in 75 mg of suspension from the valve and 108 mcg of albuterol sulfate, USP from the mouthpiece (equivalent to 90 mcg of albuterol base from the mouthpiece). To ensure proper dosing and to prevent actuator orifice blockage, wash the actuator with warm water and let it air-dry completely at least once a week [see the Patient Information tear‐off leaflet]. The blue actuator supplied with VENTOLIN HFA should not be used with any other product canisters, and actuators from other products should not be used with a VENTOLIN HFA canister. VENTOLIN HFA has a counter attached to the canister. The counter starts at 204 or 64 and counts down each time a spray is released. The correct amount of medication in each inhalation cannot be assured after the counter reads 000, even though the canister is not completely empty and will continue to operate. VENTOLIN HFA should be discarded when the counter reads 000 or 12 months after removal from the moisture-protective foil pouch, whichever comes first. Never immerse the canister in water to determine the amount of drug remaining in the canister. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid spraying in eyes. Contents Under Pressure: Do not puncture. Do not use or store near heat or open flame. Exposure to temperatures above 120°F may cause bursting. Never throw container into fire or incinerator. Store between 15° and 25°C (59° and 77°F). Store the inhaler with the mouthpiece down. For best results, the inhaler should be at room temperature before use. SHAKE WELL BEFORE EACH SPRAY. VENTOLIN HFA does not contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as the propellant.

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
294,573
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: ALBUTEROL SULFATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Recalls

Source: FDA Enforcement
Drug recall enforcement reports associated with this product.
Classification Reported Firm Reason Status
Class II May 31, 2017 GlaxoSmithKline, LLC Defective Delivery System: Elevated number of units with out of specification results for leak rate Ongoing
Class II April 12, 2017 GlaxoSmithKline, LLC Defective Delivery System: Elevated number of units with out of specification results for leak rate. Ongoing
Class II December 16, 2015 GlaxoSmithKline, LLC Defective Delivery System: Some canisters may not contain sufficient propellant to deliver the labeled claim of 200 actuations through the end of shelf life. Terminated
Class II September 5, 2012 GlaxoSmithKline Inc Does Not Deliver Proper Metered Dose: Potential content of albuterol per dose is below specification. Terminated

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
50090-1159-0 50090-1159 A-S Medication Solutions 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (50090-1159-0) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER November 28, 2014
0173-0682-20 0173-0682 GlaxoSmithKline LLC 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (0173-0682-20) / 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER June 9, 2006
0173-0682-24 0173-0682 GlaxoSmithKline LLC 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (0173-0682-24) / 60 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER June 9, 2006
68071-1670-2 68071-1670 NuCare Pharmaceuticals,Inc. 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 BOX (68071-1670-2) July 21, 2017
68071-1890-6 68071-1890 NuCare Pharmaceuticals,Inc. 60 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 BOX (68071-1890-6) July 5, 2018
63187-026-08 63187-026 Proficient Rx LP 60 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER (63187-026-08) April 1, 2015
63187-026-18 63187-026 Proficient Rx LP 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER (63187-026-18) April 1, 2015
70518-1081-0 70518-1081 REMEDYREPACK INC. 200 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER (70518-1081-0) March 24, 2018
70518-1237-0 70518-1237 REMEDYREPACK INC. 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (70518-1237-0) / 60 AEROSOL, METERED in 1 INHALER May 30, 2018
50090-1159 50090-1159 A-S Medication Solutions — June 9, 2006
0173-0682 0173-0682 GlaxoSmithKline LLC — June 9, 2006
68071-1670 68071-1670 NuCare Pharmaceuticals,Inc. — June 9, 2006
68071-1890 68071-1890 NuCare Pharmaceuticals,Inc. — June 9, 2006
63187-026 63187-026 Proficient Rx LP — June 9, 2006
70518-1081 70518-1081 REMEDYREPACK INC. — March 24, 2018
70518-1237 70518-1237 REMEDYREPACK INC. — May 30, 2018

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts
Enforcement FDA Recall records

Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.