What do albuterol; ipratropium inhalation aerosol and solution do?
ALBUTEROL; IPRATROPIUM (Combivent(R), DuoNeb(TM)) is a combination of bronchodilators, which are medicines that open up your air passages and make breathing easier. The combination is used for patients with lung problems such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. This medicine controls acute episodes or prevents recurring bouts of bronchospasm due to these conditions.

What should my health care professional know before I use albuterol; ipratropium inhalation?
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
        •  bladder problems or difficulty passing urine
        •  diabetes
        •  glaucoma
        •  heart disease, angina, or irregular heartbeat
        •  high blood pressure
        •  liver or kidney disease
        •  prostate trouble
        •  overactive thyroid gland
        •  pheochromocytoma
        •  seizures (convulsions)
        •  an unusual or allergic reaction to albuterol, ipratropium, atropine, bromides, soya protein, soybeans or peanuts, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
        •  pregnant or trying to get pregnant
        •  breast-feeding

 

How should I use this medicine?
Albuterol; ipratropium inhalation aerosol or inhalation solutions are for inhalation only, do not swallow. Follow the instructions on your prescription. Do not use more often than directed.

If you are using an aerosol inhaler: Shake the canister well. It is recommended that you "test-spray" the inhaler three times into the air before using your inhaler for the first time. You chould also "test spray" the inhaler in cases where you have not used it for more than 24 hours.

Tilt your head back slightly. Breathe out fully, emptying as much air as possible from your lungs. Keep the canister upright. Keep the inhaler about 1 inch from your open mouth (or place the mouthpiece loosely between your open lips). Press down on the inhaler (one puff) while breathing in deeply and slowly. If you can, hold your breath to the count of 10 (or as long as you can) and then breathe out (exhale). Wait at least 1 to 2 minutes between puffs.

Your inhaler will come with some instructions. Read the instructions carefully; ask your prescriber or pharmacist about instructions you do not understand.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

If you are using a nebulizer: Follow your prescribers instructions for use of the inhalation solution in your nebulizer machine. The albuterol; ipratropium nebulizer solution does not need dilution prior to use in the jet nebulizer.

 

What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

 

What other medicines can interact with albuterol; ipratropium inhalation?
        •  atropine, hyoscyamine, or related medications
        •  beta-blockers, often used for high blood pressure or heart problems
        •  cromolyn sodium
        •  medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
        •  medicines for mental depression

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check before starting or stopping any of your medicines.