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.
 
Ipratropium and albuterol inhalers will not be made, dispensed, or sold in the United States in their current form after December 31, 2013. Combivent contains chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), chemicals that deplete the ozone layer. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set this final date for this medication in order to comply with the Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer. The manufacturer of Combivent is working on a reformulated, CFC-free version and hopes it will be available to consumers in time for the 2013 phase-out of the old formulation.
 
(Click What Is Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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