Originally Posted by
jdon
I used to carry Ventolin as a rescue inhaler but was advised strongly against overuse as the doctors want it to be an effective drug for use when really needed. I was recently advised that it is no longer suggested if Symbicort is being used as it doesn't make that much of a difference.
Check with your doctors though as I am not one of those! Dave may have an opinion on this as well.
^ I'll second that....
Albuterol can definitely be addictive. BTDT. Was in an oxygen tent and literally minutes away from an ICU mechanical breathing device (or, iron lung) during my early high school years with one asthmatic episode due to 'too much' albuterol. Didn't sleep for 2 days. Had to sit up to breathe (bruises on arms and legs just from sitting/propping up). I didn't want to be on an iron lung....the oxygen tent was enough....and thankfully a very large dose of cortisone helped/worked (along with some meditation and breathing exercises). Yes, I've had it that bad....but it's all 99.9% controlled now. That 0.1% is 'just cause' there's always something that can crop up.
IMO.....if you are having to use a rescue product (albuterol) during a normal, daily routine of work/life (not EIA or some other asthma exacerbation), then talk with your doctor or lung specialist about a better solution for asthma maintenance.
HTH.