Asthalin and Ventolin are blue reliever inhalers that contain the same medicine, salbutamol (called albuterol in the US), at the same dose of 100 micrograms per puff. Ventolin is made by GSK and is one of the most widely used inhalers in the world; Asthalin is made by Cipla in India. If you are wondering whether one can replace the other, this guide explains what is the same, what differs, and how to get the most from whichever you use.
Asthalin vs Ventolin at a glance
| Asthalin Inhaler | Ventolin Inhaler | |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Salbutamol 100 mcg per puff | Salbutamol 100 mcg per puff |
| Maker | Cipla, India | GSK |
| Type | Pressurised metered-dose inhaler | Pressurised metered-dose inhaler |
| Doses per canister | 200 | 200 |
| Licensed in the US, UK and EU | No | Yes |
| Other formats from the same maker | Rotacaps (dry powder), Respules (nebuliser), tablets | Accuhaler (dry powder, some markets), nebules, syrup |
In India, GSK sells its salbutamol inhaler as Ventorlin Inhaler 100 mcg, which we stock alongside the Asthalin Inhaler.
How salbutamol works
Salbutamol is a short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA). It relaxes the muscle bands around the airways, opening them within a few minutes and easing wheeze, chest tightness and breathlessness for around 4–6 hours. It is a reliever: it treats symptoms when they happen but does nothing for the underlying inflammation of asthma. That is the job of a preventer inhaler. Our guide to types of asthma inhalers explains the difference.
What is the same and what is different?
The dose and the effect
Both deliver 100 mcg of salbutamol per actuation from an HFA-propelled canister, so one or two puffs of either should have the same effect. Switching between them does not normally require a change in how many puffs you take.
Licensing
Ventolin is licensed by regulators including the MHRA, EMA and FDA. Asthalin is licensed in India but not in the US, UK or EU, so it has not been assessed by those regulators.
Look and feel
The canisters, mouthpieces and spray feel slightly different, and not every inhaler has a dose counter. If yours has no counter, keep a note of how many puffs you have used so you are never caught with an empty inhaler.
Price
Indian brands such as Asthalin and Ventorlin usually cost much less than Ventolin bought in the US or UK without insurance.
How to use a salbutamol inhaler properly
- Remove the cap and shake the inhaler well.
- If it is new or has not been used for several days, spray one or two puffs into the air first.
- Breathe out gently, away from the mouthpiece.
- Seal your lips around the mouthpiece, start breathing in slowly and press the canister once.
- Keep breathing in deeply, then hold your breath for up to 10 seconds.
- Wait about 30 seconds before a second puff.
A spacer makes a big difference, especially for children and during an attack, because it removes the need to co-ordinate pressing and breathing. Wash the plastic actuator weekly and let it air-dry.
How much and how often
The usual adult dose is 1–2 puffs when needed, up to four times a day, or 2 puffs 15 minutes before exercise if exercise triggers symptoms. Follow the plan your doctor or nurse gives you.
If you need your reliever three or more times a week, or it wakes you at night, your asthma is not well controlled and you should see your doctor about a preventer. If your reliever does not help, or you need it every few hours, get urgent medical help.
Side effects
Salbutamol can cause a fine tremor in the hands, a fast or pounding heartbeat, headache and muscle cramps. These usually fade within an hour. At high doses it can lower potassium levels. Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, an overactive thyroid or diabetes, and avoid non-selective beta-blockers such as propranolol, which can block its effect.
Keeping your reliever ready
A reliever only helps if it works when you need it. Carry it with you at all times, and keep a spare at home or work if you use it often. Store it below 30°C and out of direct sunlight; very cold canisters can give a weaker puff, so warm one in your hand for a minute in winter. Never puncture or burn an empty canister.
Check the expiry date every few months and replace the inhaler before it runs out. If you have an asthma action plan, keep it next to your inhaler so family members know what to do in an attack. Ask your nurse to check your inhaler technique at every review, as small mistakes in timing can halve the dose that reaches your lungs.
Is there an alternative?
Levosalbutamol (levalbuterol) contains only the active half of the salbutamol molecule. Levolin Inhaler is Cipla’s version. It works in a very similar way; some people notice slightly less tremor, though the evidence for a real difference is limited. Salbutamol is also available as Asthalin Rotacaps for those who prefer a dry-powder device. Browse the full asthma range for other options.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Asthalin instead of Ventolin?
Both contain 100 mcg of salbutamol per puff, so they are generally interchangeable. Tell your doctor or asthma nurse if you switch, and check your technique with the new device.
How long does a 200-dose inhaler last?
It depends on use. If a reliever runs out within a month or two, your asthma probably needs a review.
Is Asthalin a steroid?
No. Salbutamol is a bronchodilator. Preventers such as budesonide and fluticasone are the steroid inhalers.
Can children use these inhalers?
Yes, with a spacer and at the dose prescribed for their age.
This article gives general information and does not replace advice from your doctor or asthma nurse. If breathing is getting worse or your reliever is not helping, seek emergency care.
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