Ipratropium/salbutamol (Combivent) Drug for Asthma: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Ipratropium and Salbutamol/Albuterol
(Combivent, Canada)

Use:

Ipratropium and salbutamol combination inhaler is intended to be used for bronchodilation in such breathing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

How It Works:

By combining two different types of bronchodilators in one inhaler, a dual action with convenience of dose is obtained - only one inhaler, not two is needed.
The ipratropium ingredient is an anticholinergic drug which relaxes smooth muscle in the lung. The salbutamol ingredient is a beta-2 agonist which stimulates beta-2 sites in the lungs to relax the bronchi.

Side Effects:

The ipratropium and salbutamol combination inhaler have the side effects which are associated with each of the individual ingredients - with ipratropium dry mouth, blurred vision, bad taste, urinary retention; with salbutamol nervousness, tremor, heart palpitations.

Cautions for People:

People should not overuse the ipratropium and salbutamol combination inhaler because of the potentially fatal heart complications. If someone is using a greater than prescribed dose, or if thy are finding no relief with the combination inhaler, their condition should be investigated further.
People with heart conditions should use the ipratropium and salbutamol combination inhaler with caution.
Proper technique is required with all inhalers.

Drug Interactions:

In combination with other inhalers that also open airways, the ipratropium and salbutamol combination inhaler can result in an increased incidence of side effects.

Further Reading:

Postgrad Med J 1989;65:532
Br Med J 1990;301:797

Added to Virtual Drugstore August 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.