The active component of VENTOLIN Inhalation Solution is albuterol sulfate, USP, the racemic form of albuterol and a relatively selective beta₂-adrenergic bronchodilator (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). It has the chemical name a¹-[(tert-butylamino)methyl] -4-hydroxy-m-xylene-a, a'-diol sulfate (2:1)(salt) and the following chemical structure:

Albuterol sulfate has a molecular weight of 576.7, and the empirical formula is (C₁₃H₂₁NO₃)₂·H₂SO₄.

Albuterol sulfate is a white crystalline powder, soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol.

The World Health Organization recommended name for albuterol base is salbutamol.

VENTOLIN Inhalation Solution, 0.5% is in concentrated form. Dilute the appropriate volume of the solution (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION) with sterile normal saline solution to a total volume of 3 mL and administer by nebulization.

Each milliliter of VENTOLIN Inhalation Solution contains 5 mg of albuterol (as 6 mg of albuterol sulfate) in an aqueous solution containing benzalkonium chloride; sulfuric acid is used to adjust the pH to between 3 and 5. VENTOLIN Inhalation Solution contains no sulfiting agents. It is supplied in a 20-mL amber glass bottle.

VENTOLIN Inhalation Solution is a clear, colorless to light yellow solution.

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/17/2004
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.