Albuterol/Ipratropium Dosage

Usual Adult Dose for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - Maintenance

2 puffs by metered dose inhaler 4 times a day. Patients may take an extra dose as warranted by symptomatology. The maximum recommended dose is 12 puffs/day.
or
One 3 mL vial by nebulization 4 times a day. Patients may take extra doses as warranted by symptomatology. The maximum recommended dose is 6 vials (18 mL)/ day.

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Precautions

Inhaled bronchodilators may cause paroxysmal bronchoconstriction by an unknown mechanism. Alternative therapy should be instituted if this occurs. Higher doses of albuterol should be used with caution in patients with cardiac disease, arrhythmias, or hypertension.

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients (less than 18 years of age).

Dialysis

Dialysis is not appropriate treatment for overdosage of albuterol as an inhalation aerosol

Other Comments

It is recommended to "test spray" 3 times before using for the first time and in cases where the aerosol has not been used for more than 24 hours. Patients should be instructed to shake the canister vigorously for at least 10 seconds before use.

See also...