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Ipratropium-Albuterol

This form:

Pronounced

"IP-ra-TROE-pee-um/al-BUE-ter-ol/sal-BUE-ta-mol"

Common brand names:

Combivent Respimat

Uses

This product is used to treat and prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, which includes bronchitis and emphysema). This product contains 2 medications: ipratropium and albuterol (also known as salbutamol). Both drugs work by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that the airways open up and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using this product and each time you get a refill. Learn how to use this inhaler properly. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Follow the instructions for priming the inhaler if you are using it for the first time or if you have not used it for more than 3 days or for more than 21 days. When priming the inhaler, make sure to spray away from the face so that you do not get the medication into your eyes.

Inhale this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 4 times daily. Your doctor may also direct you to use this medication as needed for wheezing and shortness of breath. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. However, the manufacturer recommends that you do not use more than 6 inhalations in a 24-hour period. Doing so may increase the risk of serious side effects.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Avoid getting this medication into your eyes. It may cause eye pain/irritation, temporary blurred vision, and other vision changes. When using the inhaler, put your lips tightly around the mouthpiece.

Rinse your mouth after using the inhaler to prevent dry mouth and throat irritation.

If you are using other inhalers at the same time, wait at least 1 minute between the use of each medication.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. This medication works best if used at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not increase your dose, use this medication more often, or stop using it without first consulting your doctor.

Clean the mouthpiece of the inhaler at least once a week as directed.

Learn which of your inhalers you should use every day and which you should use if your breathing suddenly worsens (quick-relief drugs). Ask your doctor ahead of time what you should do if you have new or worsening cough or shortness of breath, wheezing, increased sputum, waking up at night with trouble breathing, if you use your quick-relief inhaler more often, or if your quick-relief inhaler does not seem to be working well. Learn when you can treat sudden breathing problems by yourself and when you must get medical help right away.

Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.