DuoNeb (albuterol sulfate and ipratropium bromide)
The following drug information is obtained from various newswires, published
medical journal articles, and medical conference presentations.
Bronchospasm associated with COPD for patients who require more than one bronchodilator
General Information
DuoNeb Inhalation Solution has been approved for the treatment
of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD) in patients who require more than one
bronchodilator. This product combines two respiratory solutions,
ipratropium bromide and albuterol sulfate, in a premixed,
premeasured, unit-dose vial for nebulization. With this
formulation, there is no need for patients to dilute or mix
solutions, and advantages may include faster treatment time and a
reduced chance of medication error.
COPD includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis -- diseases that
are characterized by airflow obstruction. According to the World
Health Organization, COPD will be the third most common cause of
death worldwide by 2020. The quality of life for a person suffering
from COPD diminishes as the disease progresses. Current treatment
is tailored to the severity of the disease and may include
bronchodilators, antibiotics and exercise to strengthen
muscles.
Clinical Results
Results of an 863-subject trial demonstrated that DuoNeb
improved bronchodilation over albuterol alone by 24% and over
ipratropium alone by 37%, with no increased safety risk.
Side Effects
Adverse reactions reported with DuoNeb include (but are not
limited to) the following:
- Chest pain
- Pharyngitis
- Diarrhea
- Bronchitis
- Nausea
- Leg cramps
Caution is advised for patients with the following
conditions:
- Convulsive disorders
- Hyperthyroidism
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Prostatic hypertrophy
- Bladder-neck obstruction
Albuterol sulfate administration, as well as the
co-administration of DuoNeb and other sympathomimetic agents, may
result in significant cardiovascular effects.
Mechanism of Action
Albuterol is a beta2-adrenergic bronchodilator. Ipratropium
bromide, also a bronchodilator, blocks the physiologic action of
acetylcholine.
Additional Information
