What Is Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler Used For? (Cont.)

How Does the Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler Work?

The albuterol component of the inhaler belongs to a class of drugs called beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, or beta agonists for short. Beta agonists stimulate beta receptors in the body, including those on the muscles around the airways. This stimulation causes the muscles to relax, which opens up the airways and allows more air into and out of the lungs.
 
The other component of the inhaler (ipratropium) belongs to a group of medications known as anticholinergics or antimuscarinics. By binding to specific receptors in the airways, called muscarinic receptors, ipratropium helps to relax the smooth muscle of the airways.
 

Is the Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler Used in Children?

The ipratropium and albuterol inhaler is not approved for use in children. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using the drug in children.
 

Is the Ipratropium and Albuterol Inhaler Used for Off-Label Reasons?

On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend the ipratropium and albuterol inhaler for treating something other than COPD. Using the inhaler to treat asthma is considered an off-label use.

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;