Combivent Respimat Medication Information (dosing, side effects, patient counseling)

Your Medication Combivent Respimat
Combivent Respimat (Ipratropium and Albuterol)
Combivent Respimat is also known by the generic names: ipratropium and albuterol.
Combivent Respimat comes in an inhaler containing 18mcg of ipratropium and 90mcg of albuterol per inhalation.
Combivent Respimat is most commonly used for opening the airways in lung diseases where spasm may cause breathing problems. It is breathed into the lungs. Before using your inhaler you will need to spray it towards the ground until mist is seen. Once the mist is seen, repeat 3 more times then you may inhale the dose through your mouth. Always remember to put the cap back on the inhaler after you are done using your dose.
Standard dosing of Combivent Respimat ranges from 1 inhalation 4 times daily up to a max of 6 inhalations per day.
If you miss a dose of Combivent Respimat:
• If you use this drug on a regular basis, use a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
• If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
• Do not use 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
• Many times this drug is used on an as needed basis. Do not use more often than told by the doctor.
Some common side effects with Combivent Respimat include bronchitis and upper respiratory tract infections.
Some less common side effects include chest pain, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
The best way to store Combivent Respimat:
• Store at room temperature. Do not store in the bathroom or refrigerator.
• Protect from light
• Throw away after 3 months from first use or after the most number of sprays have been used, whichever comes first, even if it feels like there is more drug in the canister.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Check with your pharmacist about how to throw out unused drugs.
When taking Combivent Respimat, remember it is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have:
• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
• Signs of high blood pressure like very bad headache or dizziness, passing out, or change in eyesight
• A heartbeat that does not feel normal
• Very nervous and excitable
• Seeing halos or bright colors around lights