Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler

Using an ipratropium and albuterol inhaler four times a day can help treat symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It combines two medications, which each work in different ways to open up the airways to the lungs. Because the ipratropium and albuterol inhaler is not suitable for everyone, you should talk to your healthcare provider about certain existing medical problems (such as seizures or high blood pressure).

 

What Is the Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler?

The ipratropium and albuterol inhaler (Combivent®) is a prescription medication used to prevent airway spasms (also known as bronchospasms) caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The ipratropium and albuterol inhaler contains a combination of two medications: ipratropium bromide (Atrovent®) and albuterol sulfate (Proair®, Proventil®, Ventolin®). The ipratropium and albuterol inhaler is approved for treating COPD in people who still have breathing problems after trying one of these medications.
 
(Click What Is Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with the ipratropium and albuterol inhaler. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of the ipratropium and albuterol inhaler include but are not limited to:
 
  • Bronchitis
  • Upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold)
  • Headaches
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Coughing.
     
(Click Side Effects of Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;