albuterol and atrovent combined make up duoneb-- what does albuterol do that atrovent doesn't and vice versa--

Answer 1

I didn't quite want to get into this question, but there needs to be some clarification.

First Atrovent is NOT a steroid. It is an anticholinergic drug which blocks Acetylcholine. "It acts by blocking muscarinic receptors in the lung, inhibiting bronchoconstriction and mucus secretion." (as quoted from Wikipedia).

Albuterol is a Beta-2 Agonist "...activation of β2-receptors results in relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle resulting in a widening of the airway (bronchodilation). Inhaled salbutamol sulfate has a rapid onset of action, providing relief within 5-15 minutes of administration." (as quoted from Wikipedia) [Note: Salbutamol is the European name of Albuterol - just to avoid confusion]

Okay... now it's clear that Albuterol and Atrovent are BOTH bronchodilators. They are however, of different types of bronchodilation (one Beta-2 the other an anticholinergic). They are used as a combination to have a complimenting effect against bronchoconstriction. "...albuterol offers immediate relief while ipatropium bromide provides longer-lasting effects" (as quoted from http://asthmatrack.org/medsglossary.html#ipatr )

It should also be noted that Atrovent is a longer-acting short-term bronchodilator than Albuterol... but is not as FAST-acting as Albuterol. Therefore, Albuterol is still considered the primary drug during sudden and severe bronchospasm.

The brand-name version of the two combined drugs are "DuoNeb" for the liquid (for nebulizing), and "Combivent" for the MDI. I believe this has already been mentioned in the above posts.

Though it hasn't been mentioned, Atrovent isn't recommended for children under age 6 by the FDA. Another problem with Atrovent it is "...is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to soya lecithin or related products such as soybean and peanut." (quoted from http://www.ismp.org/newsletters/acutecare/articles/19981021.asp )

So be aware of delivering the Albuterol/Atrovent combination to folks with known peanut allergies... give just the Albuterol.

Hope this information makes some clarifications.
Good luck.

Answer 2

RE:
albuterol and atrovent combined make up duoneb-- what does albuterol do that atrovent doesn't and vice versa--

Answer 3

Albuterol opens up the airways and alveoli (little sacs in your lungs)
Atrovent keeps them open for longer periods of time.

Albuterol is used as a rescue inhaler and also as a controlant. Atrovent does not open the alveoli initially but helps keep them open after the albuterol.

Hope that makes sense.

Answer 4

Albuterol relaxes the muscles surrounding your bronchii when they are already contracted, Atrovent prevents them from spasming. So the combination of the two reverses an asthma attack and prevents another from happening for a few hours.

It's also called Combivent.

Answer 5

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Answer 6

Albuterol is a bronchial dilator where atrovent is a steroid. You need your bronchi's open via dilation for the most effect benefits of the steroid.

Answer 7

Duoneb

Answer 8

Shar is correct...and Atrovent is not a steroid as Diane stated.

Answer 9

i dont know the difrence srry