Asthma is a condition that is caused by the immune system having a strong reaction to normally harmless compounds. This causes the airways to swell up, restricting air flow. Adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) is the active ingredient in some asthma medications and Ventolin (also known as albuterol) is a brand-name asthma medication and not an ingredient. They are two different medications that can be used to treat asthma symptoms. Adrenaline inhalers can be purchased without a prescription but are more likely to cause side effects.
Uses
Both adrenaline and Ventolin medications are useful for short-term relief of respiratory problems from asthma or allergies, and both come in inhalant forms. This allows both medications to quickly gain access to the respiratory system, making them ideal for rapid relief of asthma symptoms.
Mechanism
Both adrenaline and Ventolin sprays work via a similar mechanism. The airways are surrounded by smooth muscle, which control the width of the airways. These muscle cells have special proteins called beta adrenergic receptors, which respond to adrenaline. When adrenaline binds to these receptors, they tell the smooth muscle cells to relax. Ventolin, RxList explains, is able to mimic the effects of adrenaline, but it is designed to only work on these beta adrenergic receptors.
Availability
One of the main differences between Ventolin and adrenaline is their availability. Adrenaline can be purchased over the counter. Drugs.com explains that it can be purchased under the brand name of Primatene Mist or Asthmahaler. Ventolin, on the other hand, is the brand name for albuterol, which is only available with a prescription.
Propellants
One important difference between Ventolin and adrenaline inhalers is the compound used to propel these medications. Both kinds of medication are given via a metered dose inhaler, which uses compressed gas to send out a dose of the medication. Ventolin uses a propellant called HFA (hydrofluoroalkane), whereas adrenaline inhalers use a propellant called CFC (chlorofluorocarbon). According to the U.S. Federal Drug Administration, the adrenaline inhalers are being phased out and cannot be made or sold in the United States after December 31, 2011, because CFCs harm the environment. Currently there are no adrenaline inhalers that do not use CFCs as a propellant.
Side Effects
Both medications have similar side-effect profiles, including tremors, nervousness, and agitation. Patients, according to Drugs.com, may also develop a rapid heartbeat or a headache. Adrenaline inhalers typically are more likely to cause side effects because they stimulate all adrenergic receptors in the body, as opposed to Ventolin, which only stimulates the beta adrenergic receptors.
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