GENERIC NAME: albuterol
and ipratropium inhaler
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Combivent is
a combination product consisting of two bronchodilators,
albuterol (Proventil; Ventolin) and ipratropium (Atrovent)
that is used in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (bronchitis and emphysema) when there is evidence
of spasm (narrowing) of the airways. Bronchodilators dilate
or enlarge the airways by relaxing the muscles surrounding
the airways. Albuterol and ipratropium work by different
mechanisms, but both cause the muscles of the airways
to relax. (Ipratropium is an anticholinergic and albuterol
is a sympathomimetic.)
GENERIC AVAILABLE: no
PRESCRIPTION: yes
PREPARATIONS: Combivent comes as a
metered-dose aerosol inhaler delivering 90mcg of albuterol
plus 18mcg of ipratropium per actuation of the inhaler.
STORAGE: The inhaler should be stored
at room temperature, 15-30＜C (59-86＜F) and kept away
from moisture.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Combivent is used
in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive
pulmonary diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema
when they are associated with bronchospasm or narrowing
of the airways due to spasm of the muscles surrounding
the airways.
DOSING: The dosing of Combivent must
be individualized.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: No important drug
interactions have been described with Combivent.
PREGNANCY: Please see albuterol and
ipratropium.
NURSING MOTHERS: Please see albuterol
and ipratropium.
SIDE EFFECTS: Please see albuterol
and ipratropium.
|
