Combivent (ipratropium bromide and albuterol sulfate)
COMBIVENT (ipratropium bromide and albuterol sulfate) – an inhaled combination of an anticholinergic (ipratropium) and a beta adrenergic agonist (albuterol) commonly used to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Ipratropium exerts its clinical effect by antagonizing the affects of acetylcholine, thereby preventing or relieving bronchospasm. Albuterol is a beta agonist which exerts its effect by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle, relaxing the airway irrespective of the spasmogen involved, thus protecting against all bronchoconstrictor challenges.
FDA approved uses: Combivent is indicated for use in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on a regular aerosol bronchodilator who continue to have evidence of bronchospasm and who require a second bronchodilator.
Available dosage forms: Inhalation aerosol – 21 mcg of ipratropium bromide and 120 mcg of albuterol sulfate per actuation.
Usual dosage: The dose of Combivent® Inhalation Aerosol is two inhalations four times a day. Patients may take additional inhalations as required; however, the total number of inhalations should not exceed 12 in 24 hours.
Contraindications: Patients with known hypersensitivity to ipratropium bromide and albuterol sulfate or to any excipients used in the formulation. Also contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to soya lecithin or related food products such as soybean and peanut.
Special warnings: Combivent Inhalation Aerosol can produce paradoxical bronchospasm that can be life-threatening. If it occurs, the preparation should be discontinued immediately and alternative therapy instituted. The albuterol sulfate contained in Combivent Inhalation Aerosol, like other beta-adrenergic agonists, can produce a clinically significant cardiovascular effect in some patients, as measured by pulse rate, blood pressure and/or symptoms. If these symptoms occur, discontinuation of the drug may be indicated. Immediate hypersensitivity reactions may occur after administration of ipratropium bromide or albuterol sulfate, as demonstrated by urticaria, angioedema, rash, bronchospasm, anaphylaxis, and oropharyngeal edema. Do not exceed recommended dose.
Adverse reactions (side effects) of these medications: The most common side effects of include upper respiratory tract infection, headache, pain, influenza, chest pain, nausea, bronchitis, coughing, respiratory disorders, pneumonia, bronchospasm, pharyngitis, sinusitis, and rhinitis.
Common drug interactions: No specific pharmacokinetic studies were conducted to evaluate potential drug-drug interactions.
Special instructions for patients: Use this medication exactly as directed by physician. Read the official Medication Guide before starting Combivent and when you receive new refills. Do not change your dose or how often you use Combivent except as directed by your doctor. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take.
Full prescribing information may be found at the manufacturer‘s official website Combivent.com or at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s website at Combivent Info at Drugs@FDA
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