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Ipratropium (i-pra-TROE-pee-um ) and albuterol (al-BYOO-ter-ol) combination is a bronchodilator (medicine that opens up narrowed breathing passages). It is taken by inhalation to help control the symptoms of lung diseases, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Ipratropium in combination with albuterol helps decrease coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and troubled breathing by increasing the flow of air into the lungs. Duoneb is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Inhalation Inhalation aerosol (U.S.) Inhalation solution (U.S.)
The combination of Duoneb, a bronchodilator, is used with other bronchodilators to prevent wheezing, shortness of breath, and troubled breathing caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It relaxes and opens the air passages to the lungs, making it easier to breathe. Duoneb is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. The combination of Duoneb comes as an aerosol to inhale by mouth. It is usually inhaled four times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Duoneb exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may instruct you to take additional puffs if needed. However, do not take more than twelve puffs in 24 hours. The combination of Duoneb controls the symptoms of COPD but does not cure it. Continue to use Duoneb even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Duoneb without talking to your doctor. Before you use Duoneb for the first time, read the written instructions that come with the medication. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist to demonstrate the proper technique. Practice using the inhaler while in his or her presence. To use the inhaler, follow these steps: Shake the inhaler well. Remove the protective cap. Breathe out as completely as possible through your nose while keeping your mouth shut. Open Mouth Technique: Open your mouth wide, and place the open end of the mouthpiece about 1-2 inches from your mouth. Closed Mouth Technique: Place the open end of the mouthpiece well into your mouth, past your front teeth. Close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece. Take a slow, deep breath through the mouthpiece and, at the same time, pressdown on the container to spray the medication into your mouth. Be sure that the mist goes into your throat and is not blocked by your teeth or your tongue. Avoid spraying into eyes. Adults giving treatment to young children may hold the child's nose closed to be sure that the medication goes into the child's throat. Hold your breath for 5-10 seconds, remove the inhaler, and exhale slowly through your nose or mouth. If you take two puffs, wait 2 minutes and shake the inhaler well before taking the second puff. Replace the protective cap on the inhaler. If you have difficulty getting the medication into your lungs, a spacer (a special device that attaches to the inhaler) may help; ask your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist for more information. |