The
albuterol component of
Combivent belongs to a class of drugs called beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, or beta agonists for short. Beta agonists stimulate beta receptors in the body, including those on the muscles around the airways. This stimulation causes the muscles to relax, which opens up the airways and allows more air into and out of the lungs.
The other component of Combivent (
ipratropium) belongs to a group of medications known as anticholinergics or antimuscarinics. By binding to specific receptors in the airways, called muscarinic receptors, ipratropium helps to relax the smooth muscle of the airways.
Combivent Uses in Children
Combivent is not approved for use in children. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using the drug in children.
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Combivent for treating something other than
COPD. Using the drug to treat
asthma is considered an
off-label use.
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