Physiological Effects of Ventolin Ventolin is a brand name of the drug albuterol sulfate HFA and its generic name is adrenergic bronchodilator. It is mainly taken as an inhaler, but can also be taken in the form of tablets or syrup. Treat the symptoms of bronchospasm. Bronchospasm is an abnormal contraction of the smooth muscles of the bronchi, which narrows and obstructs the airways, causing coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. The main cause of this condition is asthma, although it can also be caused by a respiratory infection, chronic lung disease, or an allergic reaction to chemicals. The mucous lining of the trachea can become irritated and inflamed, secreting mucus, which gets trapped in the bronchi and causes coughing. On the handouts there are three different images of the inside of the trachea, showing the difference between a normal healthy and inflamed trachea and one with a mucus plug from the left main bronchus. These images were taken from the Internet, with the address on the flyer. A Ventolin inhaler is inhaled through the mouth to open the bronchi of the lungs. It relaxes the smooth muscles of all the airways, from the trachea to the terminal bronchioles. Ventolin also eliminates mucus in the bronchi, making it easier for patients to breathe and reducing coughing. For Ventolin to work optimally, you need to avoid situations that could trigger an asthma attack. These situations include exercising in cold, dry air; smoking; breathe dust; and exposure to allergens such as pet dander or pollen. In relation to the case study, some of these might apply to the patient, for example exercising in the cold morning air and perhaps breathing in dust and allergens such as pollen or perhaps the Blue Mountains eucalyptus might have had an effect on his condition . There are two forms of bronchodilators, a short-acting form and a long-acting form. The short duration of action relieves or stops asthma symptoms and is very useful during an attack. They are also called "rescue" medications because they are best for treating sudden or severe asthma symptoms. Long-acting bronchodilators are used to control asthma, they take longer to work but also last longer, up to 12 hours, whereas a short-acting bronchodilator would only last about 4-5 hours. Ventolin is a short-acting form, it is recommended to use the drug 15-20 minutes before exercise.