Indications
Combivent Respimat is a prescription medication used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults. It is a combination of two medications, ipratropium bromide (an anticholinergic agent) and albuterol sulfate (a beta2-adrenergic agonist), which work together to relax muscles in the airways and improve breathing
Combivent Respimat is delivered through inhalation using the Combivent Respimat inhaler. Both drugs work by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that the airways open and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school.
Uses and Dosage
To properly use the Combivent Respimat inhaler, prime it if you are using it for the first time or if it has not been used for more than 3 or 21 days. Make sure to direct the spray away from your face when priming the inhaler to avoid getting the medication in your eyes. Your doctor may instruct you to inhale the medication by mouth, usually 4 times daily or as needed for wheezing and shortness of breath, so be sure to follow their instructions carefully. However, to avoid serious side effects, you do not exceed more than 6 inhalations in a 24-hour period.
The recommended dose of Combivent Respimat is one inhalation four times a day. Patients may take additional inhalations as required; however, the total number of inhalations should not exceed six in 24 hours.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Combivent Respimat (Ipratropium/Albuterol):
- Nausea
- Throat irritation
- Dry mouth
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose
- Headache
- Constipation
Serious Side Effects of Combivent Respimat (Ipratropium/Albuterol):
- Chest pain
- Palpitation
- Breathing problems
- Irregular heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Painful urination
- Muscle cramps
- Vision abnormalities
- Eye pain
- Confusion
Form and Strength
Combivent Respimat (Ipratropium/Albuterol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Combivent Respimat: Inhaler
- 20/100mcg
Caution
- Use it with caution in patients with underlying cardiovascular disease as it may increase heart rate or blood pressure.
- It can cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. It should not be used in patients who have hypersensitivity to atropine or its derivatives.
- Use with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma.
- Use with caution in patients with symptoms of prostate enlargement.
- Use with caution in patients with urinary retention.
- Use only if clearly needed during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk.
- Use with caution in patients with diabetes as it may affect blood sugar levels.
- Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures.
- Tell your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs and any herbal supplements, as Combivent Respimat may interact with other medications.
- Use it with caution in elderly patients as they may be more sensitive to side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Combivent Respimat used for?
Combivent Respimat is used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults.
How is Combivent Respimat used?
It is delivered through inhalation using the Combivent Respimat inhaler. Follow the dosing and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
How often can I use Combivent Respimat?
The frequency of use depends on the individual and the severity of the condition being treated. Consult with your healthcare provider for specific dosing instructions.
Can Combivent Respimat be used in children?
It may be used in children, but only under the direction of a healthcare provider.
Resources
- https://www.combivent.com/how-to-use/video
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-161259/combivent-respimat-inhalation/details
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=9832312e-0310-4ab6-8501-afa976fc7eb2
- https://www.drugs.com/combivent.html
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326654
- https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/products/combivent-respimat
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