What is asthma?

Asthma is a long-term respiratory condition caused by inflammation and narrowing of the airways in the lungs. This inflammation affects the smaller airways, making it harder to breathe.

Asthma cannot be cured, but symptoms usually fluctuate over time and can often be well controlled with appropriate treatment.

Common asthma triggers

Asthma symptoms can be triggered by a range of factors, including:

• Cold air

• Airborne allergens such as pollen or dust mites

• Air pollution and cigarette smoke

• Respiratory infections, including colds and flu

• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid flows back into the throat

Common asthma symptoms

• Shortness of breath

• Wheezing

• Persistent coughing

• Tightness or discomfort in the chest

What is a Salamol inhaler and how does it work?

Salamol is a blue reliever inhaler containing the active ingredient salbutamol. It belongs to a group of medicines known as short-acting bronchodilators.

Salamol works by relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways in the lungs, allowing them to widen. This helps air move more freely in and out of the lungs, making breathing easier.

Salamol provides rapid relief from asthma symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and breathlessness. It is commonly used when symptoms occur or before exposure to known triggers such as exercise, pollen, dust, or smoke.

Asthma inhalers are prescription-only medicines. A clinician must assess your symptoms and ensure the treatment is appropriate. After completing a short online consultation, eligible patients can reorder Salamol inhalers online for home delivery.

How often should Salamol be used?

Salamol should be used only when needed to relieve asthma symptoms or before activities likely to cause breathlessness.

Typical dosage:

• Take 1–2 puffs as required

• Use up to 4 times in 24 hours (regardless of whether you take 1 or 2 puffs at a time)

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if:

• You need Salamol more than 4 times in one day

• You require it on more than 2 days per week

• You wake at night needing your inhaler at least once per week

These may be signs that your asthma is not well controlled.

What happens if you use too much Salamol?

Using more than the recommended dose may cause side effects such as:

• A fast or pounding heartbeat

• Trembling or shakiness

These effects usually pass within 30 minutes to a few hours. They are generally not harmful, provided you do not experience chest pain or severe symptoms. Seek medical advice if you are concerned.

How quickly does Salamol work?

Salamol starts working within a few minutes. It rapidly opens the airways, easing symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath and helping you breathe more comfortably.

Can Salamol be used during pregnancy?

Keeping asthma well controlled during pregnancy is important for both mother and baby.

Salamol is commonly prescribed during pregnancy and should be continued as directed unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional. Poorly controlled asthma may increase the risk of complications, including low birth weight.

Is Salamol only used for asthma?

Salamol is primarily prescribed for asthma but may also be used for other conditions that cause airway narrowing and breathing difficulties.

It should only be used if prescribed by a clinician, even if symptoms appear similar to asthma. Using prescription medication without medical advice is not recommended.

Can Salamol be used for a cough?

In some cases, a doctor may prescribe Salamol for a cough associated with airway tightening or wheezing.

Salamol should not be used to treat a cough unless it has been specifically prescribed for that purpose.

Does Salamol affect weight?

Salamol does not cause weight gain.

Weight changes in people with asthma are more commonly related to reduced physical activity due to poorly controlled symptoms. Using your inhaler correctly can help you stay active and support a healthy lifestyle.

Tips to maintain a healthy weight:

• Exercise regularly, as advised

• Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables and whole grains

• Do not stop asthma medication without medical advice

What is an inhaler spacer?

A spacer is a hollow tube that attaches to your inhaler. It helps deliver the medicine more effectively by allowing you to inhale it slowly and deeply.

Using a spacer:

• Improves medication delivery to the lungs

• Reduces medicine deposition in the mouth and throat

• Makes inhalers easier to use, especially for children

How to care for your Salamol inhaler

• Clean only the plastic casing with water – do not wash the metal canister

• Store in a cool, dry place (avoid bathrooms)

• Do not expose to extreme temperatures

• Always replace the cap to prevent dust or debris entering the inhaler