What is Sultanol?
Sultanol is a brand-name metered-dose inhaler containing the active ingredient salbutamol. It is used as an as-needed medication for acute shortness of breath caused by asthma or COPD.
Salbutamol is a short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) that dilates the narrowed bronchi within minutes. Sultanol is often referred to as the "blue inhaler".
Sultanol contains the same active ingredient as salbutamol generics, but some patients prefer it because of its familiar design.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Salbutamol
Salbutamol acts as a beta-2 sympathomimetic:
Mechanism of action:
- Activates beta-2 adrenoceptors in the bronchi
- Increases cAMP levels in the cells
- Smooth muscle relaxes
- Bronchi open up
Time course:
- Onset of action: 1-5 minutes
- Maximum effect: 15-30 minutes
- Duration of action: 4-6 hours
Additional effects:
- Inhibits the release of mediators from mast cells
- Improves mucus clearance
Who is it suitable for?
Sultanol is suitable for:
- Acute asthma attacks
- As-needed therapy for shortness of breath
- Exercise-induced asthma (before exercise)
- COPD exacerbations
Not suitable as:
- Sole long-term therapy for asthma
- Replacement for controller therapy
Warning sign: Needed more than 2x per week = inadequate asthma control!
Available Dosages
Sultanol metered-dose inhaler:
- 100 µg salbutamol per puff
- As needed: 1-2 puffs
- Before exercise: 1-2 puffs 15-30 min. beforehand
- Maximum: 2 puffs up to 4 times within 24 hours (800 µg)
Dosage form and pack sizes
The medicines catalogue lists one pack variant: one strength in one pack size.
- Dosage form
- Dosieraerosol
- Strengths
- 100 µg
- Pack sizes
- 200 Hübe
| Strength | Pack | PZN | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 µg | 200 Hübe | 07532964 | 0 days |
Packs listed in the German medicines catalogue. Which of them are currently available and what they cost is shown in the price overview.
The Pharmazentralnummer (PZN) is the nationwide unique identifier of a pack in Germany.
Duration is the catalogue value for the usual dosage. How long a pack actually lasts depends on the dose your doctor prescribes.
How to Take
Metered-dose inhaler: 1. Remove the protective cap, shake 2. Breathe out deeply 3. Close your lips around the mouthpiece 4. Breathe in slowly while spraying 5. Hold your breath for 10 seconds 6. For a second puff, wait 30 seconds
With a spacer (recommended):
- Spray into the spacer
- Breathe in and out normally 5-6 times
- Better distribution of the active ingredient
Contraindications
Do not use in case of:
- Hypersensitivity to salbutamol
Caution in case of:
- Severe cardiovascular diseases
- Hyperthyroidism
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypokalemia
Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Can be used if there is an appropriate indication.
Possible Side Effects
Common:
- Tremor (shaking)
- Headache
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
Uncommon:
- Restlessness
- Palpitations
- Muscle cramps
- Irritation of the mouth or throat
- Changes in taste
Rare:
- Hypokalemia
Very rare:
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Paradoxical bronchospasm
- Hypersensitivity reactions
Interactions
Interactions:
- Beta blockers – can cancel out the effect of salbutamol
- MAO inhibitors – increased effects on the heart
- Diuretics, corticosteroids – risk of hypokalemia
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Sultanol contains the same active ingredient (salbutamol 100 µg per puff) as salbutamol generics. The brand name is Sultanol, the active ingredient is salbutamol.
As needed, a maximum of 2 puffs up to 4 times within 24 hours (800 µg). If you need it more than 2x per week, your asthma is not well controlled – see a doctor!
Similar Medications
Is Sultanol right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.