Combivent

Generic name: Ipratropium bromide and albuterol sulfate

What is Combivent?

Combivent is a combination medication prescribed for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) if they are already taking one airway-opening medication and need another.

What is the most important information I should know about Combivent?

Overuse of this product can be fatal. Do not increase the dose or frequency without your doctor's approval. If you find that Combivent is becoming less effective, if your symptoms are getting worse, or if you need to use Combivent more than usual, see your doctor right away.

Who should not take Combivent?

Do not use Combivent if you are allergic to soy lecithin or related products such as soybeans and peanuts. Do not use Combivent if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in this product or if you are allergic to atropine or other similar drugs.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Combivent?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Combivent. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have an eye disease that may result in loss of sight and that is characterized by rapid increases in pressure inside the eye (narrow-angle glaucoma), urinary problems, heart problems, seizures, thyroid problems, high blood sugar (diabetes), low potassium levels in your blood, and kidney or liver disease.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dosage is 2 inhalations 4 times a day. You can take additional inhalations as required up to a total of 12 inhalations each 24 hours.

How should I take Combivent?

Remove the orange protective cap from the mouthpiece and shake the canister well. If you are starting a new canister, or if more than 24 hours have passed since your last dose, test-spray the canister 3 times. For best results, make sure the canister is at room temperature. Do not use near an open flame.

Exhale deeply through your mouth, then close your lips around the mouthpiece. Keep your eyes closed to protect t hem against an accidental spray. Inhale slowly through the mouth, and at the same time press down once on the canister's base. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then remove the mouthpiece from your lips and exhale slowly. Wait 2 minutes, shake the canister again, and repeat.

The mouthpiece can be washed with soap and hot water. Rinse it and dry thoroughly. Keep the mouthpiece capped when not in use. Count the number of sprays and discard each canister after 200 sprays. Canisters may fail to deliver the proper dose if used for more than that amount.

What should I avoid while taking Combivent?

Avoid taking other inhaled medications without consulting with your doctor.

Avoid contact with your eyes because it can cause eye pain or discomfort, blurred vision, colored images, or high pressure in the eye.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Combivent?

If Combivent is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Combivent with any of the following: airway-opening drugs such as albuterol, fluticasone/salmeterol levalbuterol, and terbutaline, antispasmotics such as belladonna, benztropine, and hyoscyamine, beta-blocker blood pressure medications such as atenolol and propranolol, MAO inhibitors such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine, water pills (diuretics) such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide, tricyclic antidepressants such as doxepin, imipramine, perphenazine and protriptyline

What are the possible side effects of Combivent?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: bronchitis, coughing, headache, shortness of breath, upper respiratory tract infection.

Combivent can cause serious allergic reactions. Symptoms include itching of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, skin rash, hives, or airway narrowing. Stop taking Combivent and call your doctor right away if you experience these symptoms.

Can I receive Combivent if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Combivent during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking this drug if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Combivent?

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Combivent?

Store at room temperature. Protect from heat. Temperatures of 120°F can cause the canister to burst. Do not puncture the canister or discard it in an incinerator. Protect from high humidity.