Ipratropium/Albuterol Flashcards

Brand Names

• Combivent and DuoNeb are brand names for the combination of Ipratropium and Albuterol.

Generic Name

• The generic name for this medication is Ipratropium/Albuterol.

Indications

• Indicated for treating bronchospasm associated with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in patients who require multiple bronchodilators.

Dosing

• Recommended dosage: one 3 mL vial via nebulizer or 2 sprays from Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI), administered four times daily. Two additional doses may be taken if necessary.

Available Strengths and Dosage Forms

• Inhalation Solution (DuoNeb): Each 3 mL vial includes 3 mg of Albuterol sulfate and 0.5 mg of Ipratropium bromide.
• Aerosol (Combivent): Each actuation provides 18 mcg of Ipratropium bromide and 103 mcg of Albuterol sulfate, totaling 200 inhalations.

Medication Class

• Classified as an antiasthmatic.

Pharmacology (Mechanism of Action)

• Albuterol: Stimulates adenyl cyclase, increasing cAMP which relaxes bronchial, uterine, and vascular smooth muscle through β-2-adrenergic receptor stimulation.
• Ipratropium: An anticholinergic that inhibits vagally mediated reflexes and prevents acetylcholine from increasing cyclic-GMP in bronchial smooth muscle. Also exhibits anti-secretory properties.

Drug Interactions

• Use caution with sympathomimetics, tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors as they may heighten toxicity.
• May worsen hypokalemia or ECG changes caused by non-potassium-sparing diuretics and can decrease serum digoxin levels.

Side Effects/Adverse Effects

• Potential side effects include bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infections, chest pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea, leg cramps, pharyngitis, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections (UTI).

Contraindications

• Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to its components, history of hypersensitivity to soya lecithin, soybean, or peanuts.
• Caution advised in individuals with cardiovascular disorders, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, and during pregnancy and nursing (risk category C).
• Notable risks include narrow-angle glaucoma and prostatic hyperplasia.
• Paradoxical bronchospasm may occur with inhalation of Albuterol; discontinue if this happens.

Patient Counseling

• Use only as directed, do not exceed recommended frequency.
• Avoid eye contact and store medication in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and children.
• Consistent usage is essential for effectiveness; not intended for occasional use.
• Proper aerosol usage involves shaking the device, positioning the mouthpiece correctly, inhaling deeply, and holding breaths between doses.
• If the MDI is unused for over 24 hours, it requires three actuations to prime before use.

Test your knowledge of Ipratropium and Albuterol with these informative flashcards. Each card covers essential topics such as brand names, generic form, indications for use, and dosing recommendations. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals looking to reinforce their understanding of this medication used for COPD treatment.