Iprasol

 (2.5 mg+500 mcg)/3 ml Nebuliser Solution
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
3 ml ampoule: ৳ 18.00 (1 x 5: ৳ 90.00)
Indications
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):
    For maintenance treatment and relief of bronchospasm in patients with moderate to severe COPD.
  • Asthma:
    Adjunctive therapy for bronchospasm relief in acute exacerbations and chronic management when monotherapy is insufficient.
  • Acute Bronchospasm:
    Treatment of reversible bronchospasm in obstructive airway diseases.
  • Off-label Uses:
    • Bronchospasm associated with bronchitis or emphysema.
    • Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm when other treatments are inadequate.
Dosage & Administration
  • Adults and Adolescents (≥12 years):
    • Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI):
      Typically, 1 inhalation containing 100 mcg salbutamol and 20 mcg ipratropium, 3 to 4 times daily as needed.
    • Nebulizer Solution:
      2.5 mg salbutamol plus 0.5 mg ipratropium nebulized every 6 to 8 hours, depending on clinical response.
  • Children (6–11 years):
    • Use with caution; dosing individualized, commonly nebulized salbutamol 0.15 mg/kg with ipratropium 20 mcg per dose.
  • Elderly:
    • No dose adjustment required; monitor for side effects.
  • Renal and Hepatic Impairment:
    • No specific dose adjustment necessary; caution advised.
  • Administration Notes:
    • Use of a spacer device with MDI is recommended for optimal delivery.
    • Patients should be trained in proper inhaler technique.
    • Duration depends on clinical need; may be used for long-term maintenance or acute relief.
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Salbutamol selectively stimulates β2-adrenergic receptors on bronchial smooth muscle, increasing intracellular cyclic AMP and causing muscle relaxation, leading to bronchodilation. Ipratropium acts as a competitive antagonist at muscarinic M3 receptors in the airways, inhibiting acetylcholine-induced bronchoconstriction. The combination provides additive bronchodilatory effects by targeting both adrenergic and cholinergic pathways, enhancing airflow and symptom control in obstructive airway diseases.

Pharmacokinetics
  • Salbutamol:
    • Rapid absorption after inhalation; peak plasma levels within 5–15 minutes.
    • Oral bioavailability approximately 50%.
    • Metabolized in the liver mainly by sulfation.
    • Excreted primarily in urine as metabolites and unchanged drug.
    • Half-life: approximately 4 to 6 hours.
  • Ipratropium:
    • Poor systemic absorption after inhalation (<7% bioavailability).
    • Minimal metabolism; excreted mainly unchanged in urine and feces.
    • Half-life: about 1.6 hours.
Pregnancy Category & Lactation
  • Pregnancy:
    Both salbutamol and ipratropium are classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. Animal studies have indicated potential risks at high doses; human data are limited. Use only if clearly needed and after assessing risk-benefit ratio.
  • Lactation:
    Both drugs are excreted in breast milk in small quantities. Use with caution during breastfeeding; monitor infants for adverse reactions.
Therapeutic Class
  • Primary Therapeutic Class:
    Combination bronchodilator.
  • Subclass:
    • Salbutamol: Short-acting β2-adrenergic receptor agonist (SABA).
    • Ipratropium: Short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA).
Contraindications
  • Hypersensitivity to salbutamol, ipratropium, atropine, or formulation excipients.
  • Known allergy to peanuts or soya lecithin (in some inhaler formulations).
  • Use with caution or contraindicated in narrow-angle glaucoma and urinary retention secondary to prostatic hypertrophy.
Warnings & Precautions
  • Cardiovascular Effects:
    May cause tachycardia, palpitations, or arrhythmias; use cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease.
  • Paradoxical Bronchospasm:
    Rare but serious; discontinue drug immediately if this occurs.
  • Anticholinergic Effects:
    Possible dry mouth, urinary retention, or worsening of glaucoma symptoms.
  • High-Risk Groups:
    Use with caution in elderly patients and those with glaucoma or prostatic hypertrophy.
  • Monitoring:
    Monitor respiratory function and for anticholinergic adverse effects during treatment.
Side Effects
  • Common:
    • Tremor
    • Headache
    • Dry mouth
    • Nervousness
    • Palpitations
    • Throat irritation or cough
  • Serious/Rare:
    • Paradoxical bronchospasm
    • Worsening of narrow-angle glaucoma
    • Urinary retention
    • Allergic reactions including rash and angioedema
  • Onset:
    Side effects usually occur shortly after administration.
Drug Interactions
  • Beta-Blockers:
    May antagonize bronchodilatory effect of salbutamol.
  • Other Anticholinergic Agents:
    Additive anticholinergic side effects with ipratropium.
  • MAO Inhibitors and Tricyclic Antidepressants:
    May enhance cardiovascular effects of salbutamol.
  • Sympathomimetic Drugs:
    May increase risk of cardiovascular side effects.
  • Food and Alcohol:
    No significant interactions reported; alcohol may enhance CNS effects.
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • GOLD guidelines recommend combined short-acting β2 agonist and anticholinergic therapy for symptom relief in COPD.
  • No major recent changes in approved indications or dosing regimens.
  • Emphasis on proper inhaler technique and adherence for optimal outcomes.
Storage Conditions
  • Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
  • Protect from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
  • Keep inhalers and nebulizer solutions tightly closed when not in use.
  • Do not freeze.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
Available Brand Names