About salbutamol and ipratropium

This is a combination medicine containing both salbutamol and ipratropium, which can be used to help relieve the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Salbutamol and ipratropium are different types of bronchodilator. Bronchodilators work by opening up the air passages in the lungs so that air can flow into the lungs more easily. In doing so they help to ease symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Before using salbutamol and ipratropium

Before using salbutamol and ipratropium make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid).
• If you have heart problems including an irregular heartbeat.
• If you have high blood pressure, glaucoma or diabetes.
• If you have prostate problems.
• If you have difficulty passing urine.
• If you have cystic fibrosis.
• If you have phaeochromocytoma (a tumour on your adrenal gland).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.

How to use salbutamol and ipratropium

• Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
• Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and make sure you know how to use your nebuliser properly. If you are not sure, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you.
• Do not allow the vapour from the nebuliser to get in your eyes, if you are using a mask to inhale through make sure that it fits you properly.
• The usual dose is the contents of one single dose unit, three or four times a day.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular doctor's appointments so your progress can be monitored.
• If you feel your medication is not working as well as usual, or your breathing is getting worse, let your asthma nurse or doctor know straight away.
• Do not smoke. Smoking causes severe irritation and damage to the lungs. It will make your condition worse and will reduce the beneficial effects of your medication.
• If you have diabetes, tell your doctor if you notice any changes in your blood glucose tests, as this preparation can affect the level of sugar in your blood.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with salbutamol and ipratropium.

Can salbutamol and ipratropium cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Important: if you experience eye problems or a fast or fluttering heartbeat, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.
Important: If you experience a rash, swelling of the tongue, lips or face or your breathing gets worse after using your nebuliser, you should speak to your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital immediately.

How to store salbutamol and ipratropium

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines