| What is Combivent?
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Combivent is prescribed for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD). |
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| Are there any side effects associated with Combivent?
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Combivent side effects may include bronchitis, coughing, headache, shortness of breath,
and upper respiratory tract infection.
If the side effects continue or are bothersome, check with
your doctor. Less common Combivent side effects may include allergic reaction, blurred vision, changes in taste, changes in the voice, chest pain, constipation, diarrhea, difficulty speaking, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, eye pain, fatigue, flushing, hair loss, heartburn, high or low blood pressure, increased sputum, indigestion, influenza, insomnia, irregular heartbeat, itching, joint pain, loss of coordination, mouth sores, nasal congestion, nausea, nervousness, pneumonia, rapid or pounding heartbeat, respiratory disorders, runny nose, sinusitis, sore throat, stimulation, stomach and intestinal problems, swelling,
tingling or burning sensation, tremors, urinary problems, vomiting, weakness, wheezing,
and worsening of COPD symptoms. |
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| How is Combivent taken?
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Follow the directions for taking Combivent provided by your doctor. Remove the orange protective cap from the mouthpiece and shake the canister well. If you are starting a new canister, or if more than 24 hours have passed since your last dose, test-spray the canister 3 times. For best results, make sure the canister is at room temperature. Do not use near an open flame.
Exhale deeply through your mouth, then close your lips around the mouthpiece. Keep your eyes closed to protect them against an accidental spray.
Inhale slowly through the mouth, and at the same time press down once on the canister's base.
Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then remove the mouthpiece from your lips and exhale slowly.
Wait 2 minutes, shake the canister again, and repeat. Keep the mouthpiece capped when not in use. Count the number of sprays and discard each canister after 200
sprays. Canisters may fail to deliver the proper dose if used for more than that amount.
If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule.
Do not take
two doses at once. |
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| Are there any effects of taking Combivent with other medications?
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Some medicines may interact with Combivent. Inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.
It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Combivent with
airway-opening drugs, drugs classified as beta blockers, drugs classified as monoamine oxidase inhibitors,
spasm-quelling medications, water pills, or tricyclic antidepressants. |
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| How should I store Combivent?
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Store Combivent at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat and light. |
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