Combivent Respimat (Ipratropium/Albuterol) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Combivent Respimat (ipratropium and albuterol) Indications

Combivent Respimat, generic name ipratropium bromide and albuterol, is a prescription only oral inhaler used for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both.

It is given to patients on a regular aerosol bronchodilator who continues to have bronchospasm and need a second bronchodilator.

Combivent Respimat is classified as a combination of an anticholinergic and a beta2-adrenergic agonist. It inhibits the actions of acetylcholine, which leads to bronchodilation, and relaxes the smooth muscles in the airway.

Combivent Respimat (ipratropium and albuterol) Uses and Dosage

You should read the prescription guide before using Combivent Respimat inhaler.

Use Combivent Respimat oral inhaler exactly as prescribed. The normal dosage is one inhalation four times daily. Your physician may also prescribe this medication on an as needed basis if shortness of breath or wheezing occurs. Combivent Respimat should not be used more than six times in 24 hours.

How To Use Combivent Respimat:

1. Insert the cartridge into the inhaler prior to use. Do not remove the cartridge once it has been connected to the inhaler.
2. With the cap closed, hold the inhaler in an upright position.
3. Turn the clear base towards the direction of the white arrow until it clicks.
4. Flip the orange cap to open the inhaler.
5. Breathe out deeply and fully through the mouth.
6. Seal your lips around the end of the mouthpiece.
7. Through your mouth, take a slow deep inhalation. Do this while pressing the dark gray button.
8. Hold your breath for around ten seconds before you breathe out.
9. Take another dose if necessary. When you’re finished, close the cap.

Combivent Respimat (ipratropium and albuterol) Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of using Combivent Respimat inhaler are the following:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Nervousness
• Dry mouth
• Cough
• Shaking or tremors
• Constipation

Seek advice from your physician if any of these side effects persist or worsen.

Serious Side Effects

Severe adverse reactions are uncommon. However, some of the reported side effects of Combivent Respimat medication are:

• High blood pressure
• Worsening breathing problems
• Muscle cramps
• Painful urination
• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Rapid breathing
• Eye pain
• Vision changes
• Confusion

Any of these adverse effects must be relayed to your doctor immediately.

Allergic Reactions

You must avoid Combivent Respimat medication if you have an allergy to ipratropium bromide, albuterol, atropine, tiotropium, levalbuterol, or other belladonna-type medications. Seek emergency intervention if an allergy develops while using this prescription. Signs of an allergy include:

• Hives
• Rashes
• Itching
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swelling of the face, mouth, and neck
• Severe dizziness
• Wheezing
• Difficulty breathing

Combivent Respimat (ipratropium and albuterol) Cautions

Using Combivent Respimat inhaler may be contraindicated for patients with the following history:

• Chest pain
• Heart attack
• Irregular heartbeat
• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Any medical condition that causes difficulty urinating
• Angle-closure glaucoma

During pregnancy, you must know all the risks before using Combivent Respimat inhaler. Talk to your doctor about the possible effects on unborn babies.

This type of medication may or may not pass through breast milk. It may be necessary to stop breastfeeding while using the Combivent Respimat inhaler.

Combivent Respimat (ipratropium and albuterol) Form and Strength

Combivent Respimat is available as:

• Combivent Respimat, inhalation spray
  • 20/100 mcg (ipratropium bromide/albuterol) per inhalation
• Ipratropium/Albuterol, nebulizer solution
  • 5/2.5 mg per 3 mL

FAQ

Is Combivent Respimat a steroid inhaler?

Combivent Respimat combination does not include corticosteroids. Its active ingredients are an anticholinergic and a beta-agonist.

How many times a day can you use Combivent Respimat?

Typically, Combivent Respimat is prescribed four times daily with the maximum number of daily inhalations being six. Taking more than six inhalations could lead to serious side effects.

How long does it take Combivent Respimat to start working?

Your breathing may start to improve approximately fifteen minutes after the inhalation. You must use it regularly to achieve the full effect.

Is Combivent Respimat considered a rescue inhaler?

Physicians may prescribe Combivent Respimat inhaler as needed for sudden episodes of shortness of breath and wheezing. However, this does not work as quickly as a rescue inhaler.

Resources

https://www.combivent.com/about/benefits

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-161259/combivent-respimat-inhalation/details

https://www.rxlist.com/combivent-respimat-side-effects-drug-center.htm

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/021747s001lbl.pdf

https://reference.medscape.com/drug/combivent-respimat-albuterol-ipratropium-343443

https://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/COPD/Inhalers/CombiventRespimat