Description
Same active ingredient (albuterol) as Ventolin® HFA and ProAir®, the US brands. Asthalin Rotacaps is an Indian brand, made and licensed in India. Compare all Albuterol Inhalers (Generic Ventolin & ProAir) options.
About Asthalin Rotacaps
Asthalin Rotacaps are prescription dry-powder inhalation capsules containing albuterol (salbutamol), made by Cipla Limited, used for fast relief of wheeze and breathlessness in asthma and to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm. Each capsule usually holds 200 micrograms of albuterol as a fine powder (check the strength on your pack), and it is inhaled through a Rotahaler or Revolizer device rather than swallowed.
How do Asthalin Rotacaps work?
The device opens the capsule, and your own breath pulls the powder into the airways. Albuterol then relaxes the muscle in the bronchial walls, opening the tubes within a few minutes; relief typically lasts 4 to 6 hours. There is no propellant, so there is no cold blast at the back of the throat and no need to press and inhale at the same instant.
Who suits a dry-powder capsule?
Rotacaps work well for older children and adults who can take a quick, forceful breath in. Because the device depends on that breath, it may not deliver a full dose to young children or during a severe attack when airflow is weak. In those situations a pressurized Asthalin Inhaler with a spacer, or a nebulizer, is usually preferred.
How to use Asthalin Rotacaps
- Keep capsules in the blister until the moment of use, and handle them with dry hands.
- Open the device, place one capsule in the chamber and close it; twisting or pressing the device then opens the capsule, depending on the model.
- Breathe out fully, away from the mouthpiece; never blow into the device.
- Seal your lips on the mouthpiece and breathe in quickly and deeply. A rattle or buzz means the capsule is spinning and releasing powder.
- Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
- Open the device and check that the capsule is empty; if powder remains, inhale again. Discard the empty shell.
Never swallow the capsules. They are made for inhalation only and will not work properly by mouth.
How much to use
The usual dose is one capsule when needed for symptoms, or one capsule 15–30 minutes before exercise; some adults are prescribed two. Do not use it more than four times in 24 hours unless your doctor sets a different limit. If you find yourself needing it most days, or at night, your asthma needs a regular preventer, for example Beclate Rotacaps (beclomethasone) or Foracort Rotacaps, which are taken through the same kind of device.
Looking after the device
Keep the Rotahaler or Revolizer clean and completely dry. Wipe the mouthpiece with a dry tissue after use and, if the leaflet allows washing, let every part dry fully before the next dose, since moisture makes the powder clump. Replace the device if it cracks or no longer closes firmly.
What are the side effects?
Mild tremor, a quicker pulse, headache and a brief cough or throat irritation from the powder are the most common. Seek urgent help if wheeze gets worse right after inhaling, if you have chest pain or palpitations that do not settle, or if you develop swelling, hives or difficulty swallowing. Call 911 if an attack does not ease with your reliever.
Cautions
Tell your doctor about heart problems, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes or seizures, and about any beta-blocker, including eye drops. Diuretics and steroids can add to potassium loss when albuterol is used often. Inhaled albuterol is generally regarded as appropriate in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed, but check with your doctor. Dry-powder capsules are usually blended with lactose, so mention a severe milk protein allergy.
Storage and pack sizes
Store below 86°F (30°C) in a dry place, away from bathrooms and steamy kitchens. Asthalin Rotacaps come in packs of 30, 60 or 90 capsules, from $3.90. Make sure you have a compatible inhaler device before ordering.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Rotacaps in any capsule inhaler?
Use them with the device your prescriber or pharmacist recommends, such as Cipla’s Rotahaler or Revolizer.
Can Rotacaps be used with a spacer?
No. Spacers only work with pressurized aerosol inhalers.
How do the different inhaler types compare?
Read our asthma inhaler types guide or browse the asthma category.
For information only; not a replacement for your doctor’s advice. Asthalin Rotacaps are a prescription medicine to be inhaled only through a suitable device.
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