We've used it a few times with no side effects. We don't seem to have side effects from ventolin or flixotide either.

From memory, it takes either 4 or 6 hours to take effect
Not sure this is right.. as the dr told me it's very quick and the best way to get things opened up again if he's not responding well to ventolin.

The times we've used it the dr has said to give one dose a day for 2 days and then use my judgement from there. But I've used my judgement after the first dose too and found we often don't need any more. But I keep up the regular ventolin for a couple of days.

We've had a really good run so far this season tho. Not sure whether he's growing out of it, or if it's the preventer once a day, or both. Haven't used the predmix this year.

Hope it all settles down for her. I'm inclined to relieve the coughing as it's very tiring and stressful for them. Your instincts will tell you when she needs it or not.