Ipratropium Bromide / Albuterol (Salbutamol Sulfate) Information

ALBUTEROL; IPRATROPIUM has two bronchodilators. It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breathe. This medicine is used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions: -heart disease -high blood pressure -irregular heartbeat -an unusual or allergic reaction to albuterol, ipratropium, atropine, soya protein, soybeans or peanuts, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives -pregnant or trying to get pregnant -breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is used in a nebulizer. Nebulizers make a liquid into an aerosol that you breathe in through your mouth or your mouth and nose into your lungs. You will be taught how to use your nebulizer. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use more often than directed. Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications: -MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate This medicine may also interact with the following medications: -diuretics -medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances -medicines for irregular heartbeat -medicines for weight loss including some herbal products -methadone -pimozide -some medicines for blood pressure or the heart -sertindole

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. If your breathing gets worse while you are using this medicine, call your doctor right away. Do not stop using your medicine unless your doctor tells you to. Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe. You may get dizzy or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: -allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue -breathing problems -feeling faint or lightheaded, falls -fever -high blood pressure -irregular heartbeat or chest pain -muscle cramps or weakness -pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet -vomiting Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): -blurred vision -cough -difficulty passing urine -difficulty sleeping -headache -nervousness or trembling -stuffy or runny nose -unusual taste -upset stomach.