Ventolin and Cramps

[76RL]

Does anyone suffer the same when taking Ventolin. These mainly occur in my hands, ankles and lower legs. I also use Sereflo twice per day, so I only use Ventolin as a back up if the symptoms of asthma become worse. If you do have similar issues, do you have any strategies to deal with them? Thankyou.

[Gareth57]

I don't get cramp from using Ventolin but I do get cramp from using Fostair

[Anselm198]

I take quinine sulphate for cramp from Ventolin and it helps my neuropathy.

[fraid]

Sounds like you need a review, no good taking a med that gives you other problems. Ask doc, there must be alternatives that wouldn’t cause these side effects?

[Lysistrata Administrator Community Ambassador]

I would definitely mention this to your GP. Several asthma medications can often reduce potassium levels which might be a reason for having cramps - if it is that you need to address it while still taking your asthma medications.

Annoyingly it's kind of hard to avoid the medications that do this with asthma I think because of how they work. But if this is the issue then you could discuss supplements with your GP (don't just start taking them, because you don't necessarily know this is the issue).

Could also be worth having a chat with the asthma nurses alongside seeing your GP, as they might have suggestions to take to them about how you can address this: 0300 2225800 or WhatsApp [phone] Monday-Friday 0915-5pm

[Poobah]

I totally agree with Lysistrata. Potassium levels are affected by so many inhalers and some patients are more susceptible. Low potassium levels lead to cramps but can also affect blood pressure, so definitely something to discuss with your prescribing doctor.

The patient leaflet will indicate the potassium issue, so take it along with you to your appointment.

I had very low potassium while in hospital and had to take prescribed supplements, but most cases can be treated with a potassium rich diet. I wouldn't recommend taking potassium without medical supervision as it's one of those minerals that can be problematic if taking too much.

[Mandevilla]

I do get cramps, but I've never been sure if it's from the Ventolin or if it's a response to the asthma - before I was diagnosed, I used to get cramps when I was breathless, so it's obviously not only due to the Ventolin.

I find warmth helpful - I use fingerless gloves for my hands, hot water bottles or warm water if I can. Rubbing the affected bit of me helps too.

[76RL in reply to Mandevilla]

Thank you for sharing your experience. I agree that warmth is a great help in all the forms you mention. My asthma is activated by damp air, extreme cold plus wind and rain which also doesn't help with the cramp. I am talking to my GP tomorrow so will have reappraisal of current medication and see if that helps.

[Mandevilla in reply to 76RL]

Have you tried a dehumidifier? That made a huge difference for me - obviously no help when you have to be outside, but it does calm everything down a lot if I can come in and go straight to a room that has a dehumidifier running.

[Bu997]

Hello, I used to be on Seretide and had frequent cramps in my hands and feet. I’ve since switched to Symbicort MART and no longer have cramps. I am cautious about generalising for other people but that was my experience.

[76RL in reply to Bu997]

Thank you for your reply. I have not heard about Symbicort MART how long have you experienced using this inhaler?

[Bu997]

I have taken Symbicort for about 18 months. It can be used as a maintenance and reliever which has helped me alongside Spiriva.