Drug Description:
CombiventRespimat (ipratropium-albuterol) is an inhalation spray indicated for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with bronchitis and emphysema. This medication is usually prescribed if COPD patients on a regular aerosol bronchodilator are required to have a second bronchodilator.
This inhalation is a combination of bronchodilators – the anticholinergic ipratropium bromide and the beta2-adrenergic agonist albuterol sulfate. Ipratropium is a parasympatholytic agent that works by inhibiting vagally stimulated reflexes, like bronchoconstriction, by antagonizing the action of acetylcholine. Furthermore, albuterol has the capability to relax the smooth muscles of the airway, from the trachea to terminal bronchioles.
Directions
Before taking this medication, make sure to read the medication or prescription guide thoroughly. Follow the exact dose and frequency prescribed by your physician. This inhalation is available in 100mcg albuterol (equivalent to 120 mcg albuterol sulfate) and 20 mcg ipratropium bromide per actuation.
Use CombiventRespimat regularly to get full benefits. Ideally, it should be administered at evenly spaced intervals and at the same time of the day, every day. Do not increase or decrease your CombiventRespimat doses, or stop abruptly as it could worsen your condition.
COMBIVENT RESPIMAT – How To Use:
- Ensure that the orange cap is closed. Press the safety catch in the middle area while pulling off the clear base. Be cautious not to touch the piercing component inside the clear base.
- On the label of your inhaler, write the discard date. Discard date should be 3 months from the date the cartridge has been inserted in the inhaler.
- Remove the CombiventRespimat cartridge out of the box. Insert the narrow edge of the cartridge into the inhaler. You will know that it has been inserted correctly if only ⅛ inch of the cartridge is showing.
- Place the orange cap and clear base back into its place.
- Hold the inhaler in a vertical or upright position and turn the clear base to the direction of the white arrow in the label until you hear a click.
- Flip the orange cap until it is fully open, and point the inhaler away from you. Push the dose release button. Once spray is visible, repeat this step thrice to make sure that it is ready for use.
- Now that your CombiventRespimat is ready to use, exhale fully and deeply. In a vertical position, close your lips around the mouthpiece and point it at the back of your throat. Remember not to cover the air vents with your fingers.
- Inhale slowly and deeply through your mouth while you push the dose release button fully.
- Hold your breath for not less than 10 seconds, and then exhale slowly.
- Close the orange cap and breathe normally.
- Rinse your mouth with water. Do not swallow.
Note: Do not remove the cartridge once it is already inserted.
Side Effects
Some of the most common CombiventRespimat side effects you may experience are:
-headache
-dizziness
-nausea
-stuffy nose
-sneezing
-dry mouth
-nervousness
-constipation
These common adverse effects usually disappear on their own. If any of these side effects get worse, you have to contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately. Other adverse reactions to watch out for are hypertension, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing, confusion, or any eye problem.
Precautions
Do not use CombiventRespimat if you have a known allergy to ipratropium, albuterol, tiotropium, levalbuterol, other belladonna-type drugs, or any inactive ingredients this inhalation may have. Seek emergency help if you develop signs of an allergy such as skin rash, hives, swelling of the face, and breathing difficulty.
Talk to your physician about any medical condition you have at present or if you have a history of hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, glaucoma, enlarged prostate, seizure, and hyperthyroidism. Your current medical condition and some drugs you are taking may affect how your body responds to this medication.
CombiventRespimant may make you dizzy or blur your vision. Limit your alcohol intake and do activities like driving and using machinery with extreme caution. Do not do activities that require alertness if you feel that it is unsafe.
For pregnant women, CombiventRespimat should only be used if the potential benefits could outweigh the potential risks. Additionally, there’s also not enough study on whether this drug could pass into breast milk. Contact your physician or healthcare provider right away if you suspect pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CombiventRespimat used for?
CombiventRespimat is used for people with COPD and severe asthma.
What should I do if I miss a dose of CombiventRespimat?
If you missed a dose of CombiventRespimat, administer it right away. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, disregard the missed dose and proceed with the next scheduled one.
How often should I clean my CombiventRespimat?
It would be best if you clean your inhaler at least once a week.
Can I use CombiventRespimat as a rescue inhaler?
As this medication may not work quickly enough, you may need another rescue inhaler.
How long does it take before CombiventRespimat works?
You may start to feel the effects of this inhaler 15 minutes after you administer it.