Drug Name

Combivent (Albuterol and Ipratropium)

Drug Uses

The combination of Albuterol and Ipratropium inhalation (Combivent) are used to prevent bronchospasm in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who are also using other medicines to control their condition.

How to use

Use Combivent as directed by your doctor.

• Shake the inhaler vigorously for at least 10 seconds before each spray.
• Breathe out fully. Put the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips. Keep your eyes closed to prevent spraying any medicine into your eyes. Breathe in slowly while pushing down on the canister. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
• If you use more than one inhalation at a time, wait at least 2 minutes before using the second inhalation.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Albuterol and Ipratropium (Combivent) are bronchodilators that relax muscles in the airways and increase air flow to the lungs.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Combivent, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Combivent between 39 and 86 degrees F (4 and 30 degrees C). Keep Combivent out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use the albuterol and ipratropium inhaler (Combivent) if you are allergic to soybeans, peanuts, or other food products that contain soya lecithin.

Call your doctor right away if you feel that this medicine is not working as well as usual, or if it makes your condition worse. If it seems like you need to use more of any of your medications in a 24-hour period, talk with your doctor.

Possible Side Effects

Stop using this medication and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using albuterol and ipratropium and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• bronchospasm (wheezing, chest tightness, trouble breathing), especially after starting a new canister of this medicine; chest pain and fast, pounding, or uneven heart beats; swelling of your ankles or feet; pain or burning with urination; or increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure).

Continue using this medication and talk with your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:

• headache, dizziness, nervousness; drowsiness or sleep problems (insomnia); cough, hoarseness, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose; dry mouth, unusual taste in your mouth; tremors, numbness or tingly feeling; nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation; or blurred vision.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

More Information

Your pharmacist has additional information about albuterol and ipratropium inhalation written for health professionals that you may read.