DESCRIPTION
Ipratropium bromide is a synthetic quaternary anticholinergic (parasympathetic) ammonium compound chemically related to atropine. It appears to inhibit vagally mediated reflexes by antagonizing the action of acetylcholine. Anticholinergics prevent the increases in intracellular concentrations of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cyclic GMP) which are caused by interaction of acetylcholine with the muscarinic receptor on bronchial smooth muscle.
The bronchodilation following inhalation is primarily a local, site – specific effect. Salbutamol sulphate is a direct-acting sympathomimetic with mainly beta-adrenergic activity and a selective action on beta2-receptors (a beta2-agonist) used to produce bronchodilation. It relieves reversible bronchospasm by relaxing the smooth muscles of the bronchioles in conditions associated with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or bronchiectasis.
Ipratropium bromide is a bronchodilator that dilates (enlarges) airways (bronchi) in the lungs. It is used in treating, symptoms of asthma, colds, allergies, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Ipratropium blocks the effect of acetylcholine on airways (bronchi) and nasal passages. Acetylcholine is a chemical that nerves use to communicate with muscle cells. In asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cholinergic nerves going to the lungs cause narrowing of the airways by stimulating muscles surrounding the airways to contract. The “anti-cholinergic” effect of ipratropium blocks the effect of cholinergic nerves, causing the muscles to relax and airways to dilate.
USES
Ipratropium is used to control and prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD which includes bronchitis and emphysema). It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school.For preventing symptoms of lung disease, this medication must be used regularly to be effective. Use your quick-relief inhaler or nebulized solution (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) for wheezing or sudden shortness of breath unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Ipratropium does not work as fast as your quick-relief medication, but may sometimes be used together with your quick-relief medication to relieve symptoms of wheezing or sudden shortness of breath if so prescribed by your doctor.
HOW TO USE IPRATROPIUM BROMIDE INHALATION
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using ipratropium and each time you get a refill. This medication is used with a special machine called a nebulizer that changes the solution to a fine mist that you inhale. Learn how to prepare the solution and use the nebulizer properly. This product should be clear and colorless. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.
Inhale this medication into your lungs using the nebulizer as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times a day (6 to 8 hours apart). Avoid getting this medication into your eyes. It may cause eye pain/irritation, temporary blurred vision, and other vision changes. It is recommended that you use a mouthpiece rather than a face mask with the nebulizer or that you close your eyes during use. Each treatment usually takes about 5 to 15 minutes. Use this medication only through a nebulizer. Do not swallow or inject the solution. To prevent infections, clean the nebulizer and mouthpiece/face mask according to the manufacturer’s directions.
If you are directed to use this medication regularly, it works best if used at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not increase your dose, use this medication more often, or stop using it without first consulting your doctor.
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.
Learn which of your inhalers/medications you should use every day and which you should use if your breathing suddenly worsens (quick-relief drugs). Ask your doctor ahead of time what you should do if you have new or worsening cough or shortness of breath, wheezing, increased sputum, waking up at night with trouble breathing, if you use your quick-relief inhaler more often, or if your quick-relief inhaler does not seem to be working well.
SIDE EFFECTS
Dizziness, nausea, stomach upset, dry mouth, or constipation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Rarely, this medication may cause severe sudden worsening of breathing problems right after use. If you have sudden worsening of breathing, use your quick-relief medication and get medical help right away.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fast/pounding heartbeat, difficult/painful urination.Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: eye pain/swelling/redness, vision changes (such as seeing rainbows around lights at night, blurred vision).
A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
STORAGE
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Ipratropium bromide +Salbutamol (Pulmodual) 500 mcg/2.5 mg per 2.5 mL Solution for Inhalation: 2.5 mL ampule (Box of 30’s). At USA Script Helpers, we carry a wide variation of medications including Ipratropium bromide +Salbutamol (Pulmodual) as well as Canadian Insulin. Only at USA Script Helpers you can find approved and the most affordable medications. Including both brand name and generic equivalent medications. USH also offers PetMeds aside from human medications. Place your order online at www.usascripthelpers.com.
