Duoneb: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Duoneb is part of the group of anti-asthma drugs used in the form of inhalations.

The main active components of the drug are ipratropium bromide and albuterol. Ipratropium bromide is a quaternary ammonium compound that has anticholinergic properties. It is a competitive antagonist of such a neurotransmitter as acetylcholine.

Ipratropium bromide produces a blocking effect on some mediators, which causes a blockage in the transmission of nerve impulses. Also, this component is capable of blocking smooth muscle receptors located in the tracheobronchial tree.

Albuterol is a sympathomimetic that can stimulate beta-two-adrenergic receptors. This component leads to relaxation of smooth muscles in the bronchi, blocking inflammatory mediators, increasing mucociliary clearance.

Due to its anticholinergic properties, the drug prevents an increase in the concentration of certain substances in the cells, which causes its bronchodilator effect, as well as the preventive possibilities of developing bronchospasm. Also, its use leads to a decrease in the number of secretions from the bronchi and sinuses.

Patients suffering from bronchospasm observe a marked improvement in well-being and lung function after the first quarter of an hour after application.

Indications

Duoneb is used for long-term treatment of bronchospasm, which is caused by:

  • chronic obstructive disorders;
  • chronic bronchial asthma.

Contraindications

The drug is contraindicated in cases where the patient has a pronounced hypersensitivity (allergy) to the main or one of the auxiliary components.

Duoneb is also contraindicated for use in:

  • hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy;
  • tachyarrhythmia.

In pediatrics, it can be used from the age of 12.

Pregnancy and lactation

This drug is contraindicated for pregnant women in the first trimester of pregnancy.

If it is necessary to use the drug during breastfeeding, lactation is stopped.

Dosage and administration

The drug is taken by inhaling the dose from the inhaler.

To stop an acute attack of bronchial asthma or shortness of breath, adult children older than 12 years should make inhakation 3-4 times a day.

In children, dosed aerosol should be used only on the recommendation of a doctor and under the supervision of adults.

The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and is determined individually.

If there is no therapeutic effect from the use of the drug or if the patient worsens, or if the effectiveness of the prescribed dose decreases, the patient should consult a doctor for additional measures.

Overdose

Overdose manifestations of ipratropium bromide are unlikely due to low systemic absorption after inhalation or oral administration. As a result of this, all manifestations of overdose are associated with the systemic effect of albuterol.

Symptoms: headache, nausea, vomiting, angina pectoris, hypertension, hypotension, hypokalemia, hyperkalemia, tachycardia, arrhythmia, chest pain, tremor, hyperemia, anxiety, hallucinations and dizziness.

Treatment: symptomatic, including the introduction of cardioselective beta-blockers. However, one should keep in mind that these drugs can increase bronchospasm.

Side effects

The use of Duoneb can cause the following side effects:

  • dry mouth, taste disturbances, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea;
  • palpitations, extrasystoles, arrhythmias;
  • cough, irritation and sore throat, paradoxical bronchospasm, increased sputum viscosity, laryngospasm;
  • headache, dizziness, convulsions, nervousness;
  • rash, itching, decreased secretion of sweat glands;
  • visual impairment, conjunctivitis, increased intraocular pressure (in patients with angle-closure glaucoma);
  • urticaria, erythema multiforme, anaphylactic shock, angioedema;
  • urinary retention, impaired urination (especially in patients with prostatic hyperplasia).

Category: Health Care

Tags: Asthma, lungs, Respiratory diseases, respiratory system