How paediatricians choose: Ventolin is first-line for general asthma — fast onset, fewer side effects. Berodual is reserved for cases where Ventolin is insufficient or when a child has chronic lung disease.
How Often Per Day — Dosing by Age
Ventolin dosing by age — always follow your paediatrician's prescription first.
Age
Ventolin (when symptomatic)
Before exercise
0-4 yrs
1-2 puffs every 4-6 hr + spacer + face mask
Consult paediatrician
4-12 yrs
2 puffs every 4-6 hr + spacer
1-2 puffs 15 min before sport
≥ 12 yrs
2 puffs every 4-6 hr (spacer recommended)
1-2 puffs 15 min before sport
Key rules:
Only when symptomatic — never schedule doses without medical instruction
If using more than 4 doses/day = uncontrolled disease → see paediatrician
If more than 4 puffs in one hour → go to ER immediately
Berodual: max 8 puffs/day, only by paediatrician order
❌ Not using a spacer — only 10-20% of dose reaches the lungs
❌ Pressing without shaking — uneven dose per puff
❌ Two puffs in immediate succession — must wait 30-60 sec between puffs
❌ Holding breath after the puff — wrong; child should take 5-6 normal breaths through the spacer
❌ Scheduled Ventolin without symptoms — increases overuse risk
❌ Storing in the car — heat degrades the canister
❌ Forgetting to rinse — raises the risk of oral thrush
Caring for and Cleaning the Spacer
Wash the spacer with warm water + dish soap once a week
Air-dry — do not wipe, as friction creates static that traps medication
Check valves and face mask for cracks or wear
Replace the spacer every 6-12 months or when damaged
Store in a sealed bag to keep dust out
Signs You Need Emergency Care
After a bronchodilator dose, watch for:
No improvement or worsening after 15-20 minutes
Very rapid breathing (children <5: >50 breaths/min; >5: >30 breaths/min)
Bluish lips, pale
Chest or neck retractions
Unable to finish a sentence
Drowsy or unresponsive
Any of these → go to the ER immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Children <5: spacer with face mask (e.g., AeroChamber Plus). Children ≥5: mouthpiece spacer or vortex spacer.
Warm water + dish soap once a week. Air-dry completely — do not wipe (friction creates static).
Try a colourful spacer, reward stickers, or dose during sleep (face mask). Talk to your paediatrician if cooperation remains a problem.
Lung delivery drops — not dangerous, just less effective. Start over with 1 puff, wait 30-60 sec, then the next.
Yes — 200 puffs per canister. Track with a sticker chart or a dose-counter app.
Normal — 10-15% incidence, resolves in 30 minutes. Offer water and rest. If severe or persists past 1 hour, ask a pharmacist.
Only in emergencies or under paediatrician order — both contain Salbutamol, raising side-effect risk.
Either after brushing, or wait 5-10 minutes after the puff before brushing — to let the medication settle in the lungs.
⚠️ Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified doctor or pharmacist. If you have any questions about your symptoms or medication, always consult a doctor or pharmacist first.
Ventolin Evohaler
Berodual
