Description:

Salamol CFC-Free Inhaler 100 micrograms (by IVAX) is a pressurised metered-dose inhaler (MDI) containing salbutamol (albuterol), a fast-acting bronchodilator. It relieves symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by relaxing airway muscles, opening the bronchi, and easing breathing difficulties such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. It is a reliever (rescue) inhaler for acute symptoms or before exercise/triggers, and is CFC-free (uses HFA-134a propellant for environmental safety). In Ghana, it is widely available in pharmacies (e.g., Meldinpharma, Wellmart Health Solutions, Country Medical Pharmacy) as an imported generic for asthma/COPD management.

Prescription:

Prescription-only (requires a doctor’s prescription in Ghana; available through pharmacies and hospitals, often for asthma/COPD patients with a valid Rx from a physician or pulmonologist).

Therapeutic Category:

Short-Acting Beta-2 Agonist (SABA) / Bronchodilator / Respiratory Agent (for relief of reversible airways obstruction

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient: Salbutamol (as salbutamol sulphate) 100 micrograms per actuation (metered dose). Other ingredients: Norflurane (HFA-134a propellant, CFC-free), ethanol (small amount as solvent/excipient). The formulation is a pressurised inhalation suspension.

Variant:

• Salamol CFC-Free Inhaler 100 micrograms (standard MDI, typically 200 doses/actuations). Related variants: Salamol Easi-Breathe (breath-actuated version), Salamol nebules (for nebuliser), or other salbutamol inhalers (e.g., Ventolin equivalents). The queried “IVAX” refers to the original/marketing holder branding (now under Teva/IVAX Pharmaceuticals UK).

Consume Type:

Inhalation – Pressurised metered-dose inhaler (MDI; puff inhaled through the mouth; use with spacer if recommended for better delivery, especially in children or coordination issues).

Directions/Usage:

Shake well before use. Remove cap, breathe out fully, place mouthpiece in mouth, press canister while inhaling deeply and slowly, hold breath for 10 seconds, then exhale. Wait 30-60 seconds between puffs if more than one needed.

• Adults and children (4+ years): 1-2 puffs as required for relief, up to 4 times in 24 hours (max 8 puffs/24h without medical advice).
• For prevention (e.g., exercise-induced): 1-2 puffs 10-15 minutes before trigger. Use as directed by doctor; not for regular daily control (use preventer inhaler like corticosteroids for that). Prime inhaler if new or unused for weeks (shake and spray a few test puffs away).

Common Side Effects:

Common (usually mild/transient):

• Tremor/shakiness (especially hands)
• Headache
• Fast heartbeat (tachycardia) or palpitations
• Nervousness/anxiety
• Muscle cramps
• Dry/irritated throat or mouth Rare/serious: Paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening wheezing—stop and seek help), irregular heartbeat, low potassium, severe allergic reactions.

Package Type:

Pressurised aluminium canister in plastic actuator with mouthpiece and dust cap; typically 200 metered doses per inhaler, supplied in a carton with patient information leaflet.

Storage Advice:

Store below 25-30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, frost, and moisture. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep upright, tightly capped, and out of reach of children. Do not puncture or incinerate the canister (pressurised). Discard after expiry or when counter (if present) shows low, or after 200 doses.

Safety Advice:

• For inhalation only; never swallow or inject.
• Consult doctor if symptoms worsen, no relief after use, or frequent need (>3-4 times/week—may indicate poor control).
• Caution in heart conditions, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or low potassium.
• Safe in pregnancy/breastfeeding generally (consult doctor).
• Overuse can cause tolerance or side effects—do not exceed recommended dose.
• Use spacer for children/elderly to improve delivery and reduce oral side effects.
• Seek emergency help for severe asthma attack (e.g., blue lips, extreme difficulty breathing).

Product Substitutes:

Other salbutamol 100mcg CFC-free inhalers available in Ghana include:

• Ventolin Evohaler (original brand)
• Asthalex, Kmsol, or generic salbutamol inhalers
• Local brands like Salbutamol Vega or imported generics. Alternatives: Terbutaline (Bricanyl) or combination inhalers (if needed for control); consult doctor/pharmacist in Accra for switch.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

IVAX Pharmaceuticals UK (T/A Norton Healthcare Ltd., now part of Teva UK Limited; marketing authorisation holder).

Country of Origin:

United Kingdom (manufactured in Ireland or UK facilities under IVAX/Teva; imported to Ghana via distributors/pharmacies).