hops
October 12, 2017
What is the difference between Albuterol and Ipratropium - for my nebulizer?
Trying to find out the difference in Albuterol Sulfate and Ipratropium Bromide in my nebulizer medications. What actions does each provide?
Leon Lebowitz, BA, RRT
October 13, 2017
Hi HOPS - I see that Lynn has provided an excellent reply to your inquiry about the difference between Albuterol and Ipratropium.
I also thought, if you wanted to read a bit more about the medications you might find the following to be helpful.
First, this article on Albuterol: https://copd.net/treatment/medication-overview/medications/sabas/.
And next, this article which provides an overview of bronchodilators: https://copd.net/treatment/medication-overview/bronchodilators/
I hope you find these to be helpful as well.
All the best, Leon (site moderator)
Lyn Harper, RRT
October 12, 2017
Great question HOPS -
Albuterol is a fast-acting bronchodilator. It's the drug of choice for opening up the airways. It's in a drug class known as beta2- agonist.
Ipratropium bromide is in a class known as anticholinergics. This class of drugs are also effective at dilating airways, but it does it by a different means than albuterol. It tends to have fewer side effects - such as the tremors and increased heart rate that albuterol produces.
Since they work differently in relaxing smooth muscles of the airways, they are often used in combination.
I hope that answers your question.
Regards,
Lyn (moderator)
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