Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Albuterol/Ipratropium Inhalation Spray (IPRATROPIUM/ALBUTEROL (SALBUTAMOL) SPRAY - ORAL INHALATION)

For chronic lung disease (COPD).

Brand Name(s): Combivent

Generic Name: Albuterol/Ipratropium

Instructions

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

The first time you open a new inhaler, you need to get it ready to use. Point the inhaler away from you and spray into the air. Repeat until you see a fine mist. After you see a fine mist, spray 3 more times. The inhaler is now ready to use. This process is called priming the inhaler.

Keep track of how many times you use the inhaler. Do not use it more than the total number of doses shown on the package.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than six times during 24 hours.

Cautions

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Be very careful not to spray the medicine into your eyes. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

If this medicine causes more wheezing or makes it harder to breathe, stop the medicine. Get medical help right away.

Do not start or stop any other medicines without first speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.

If you have any trouble using the medicine, please tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • coughing
  • dizziness
  • dry mouth
  • headaches
  • high blood pressure
  • nausea
  • shakiness

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • rapid heartbeat
  • worsening breathing symptoms

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.