The Combivent meter dose inhaler (MDI) containing ipratropium bromide 18mcg/albuterol 103mcg has been discontinued by the manufacturer and replaced with Combivent Respimat.
A new prescription is required for the Combivent Respimat – automatic substitution between the products is not permitted due to their differences.
Combivent Respimat (ipratropium bromide 20mcg/albuterol 100mcg) is a propellant-free ipratropium bromide/albuterol combination product which complies with the agreement to protect the ozone layer by phasing out CFC containing products.
Combivent Respimat delivers significantly more drug to the lungs due to particle size and a slower mist compared to the Combivent MDI, therefore most patients will require half the inhalations with the Respimat as they did with the MDI.
When prescribing Combivent for a first time patient or for continued use (refills), please write for the Combivent Respimat and dose adjust as clinically appropriate.