General Information on Duovent UDV
Duovent UDV is indicated for the treatment of severe attacks of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and asthma. This drug contains two active ingredients, ipratropium bromide and fenoterol hydrobromide, both of which improve the symptoms of bronchospasms associated with the aforementioned conditions by opening the airways.
The generic name of this drug is Ipratropium and Fenoterol. While ipratropium bromide is an anticholinergic bronchodilator, fenoterol hydrobromide is a beta2-adernergic bronchodilator.
Side effects of Duovent UDV
Duovent UDV is well tolerated by most patients. However, the medication may cause certain side effects in some cases. Before you buy Duovent UDV, consult your doctor about the potential risks associated with using Ipratropium and Fenoterol and how you can prevent or minimize the side effects.
The most common side effects of Duovent UDV are:
- Muscle tremors
- Headache
- Heart palpitations
- Restlessness and agitation
- Anxiety
Less common side effects of Duovent UDV are:
- Heartburn
- Dry mouth
- Dry throat
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Decrease in blood potassium levels
- Increase in blood sugar levels
In most cases, the aforementioned side effects are mild in intensity. In case you experience any of these side effects and are finding it difficult to cope with them, consult your physician for advice.
An allergic reaction to Duovent UDV is uncommon but possible. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms associated with allergic reactions after using this drug:
- Severe skin rash and/or itching of the skin
- Hives
- Facial flushing
- Increased breathing difficulty
- Closing of the throat
Before you start treatment, it is absolutely necessary that you inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have or have had any of the following:
- High blood pressure
- Low blood potassium levels
- Heart problems
- Hyperthyroidism
- Diabetes
The safety and efficacy of Ipratropium and Fenoterol in pregnant and lactating women has not been established. Consult a doctor before you buy Duovent UDV if you are pregnant or breastfeeding an infant.
Dosage of Duovent UDV
This drug is available in only one strength, Duovent UDV 0.3125mg/0.125mg/ml. Each ml of this drug contains 0.3125mg of fenoterol hydrobromide and 0.125mg of ipratropium bromide.
Duovent UDV is administered via a nebulizer. The recommended dosage in adults is 4ml. You should repeat the dosage after a gap of 6 hours if required. Your actual dosage, however, may vary. After studying your condition, medical history, and response to treatment, your doctor will prescribe the correct dosage- one that produces the optimal response.
Interactions
Unwanted drug interactions may occur if you take certain drugs along with Duovent UDV. These include, but are not restricted to:
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Theophylline
- Anticholinergic drugs
- Corticosteroids
- Diuretics that decrease blood potassium levels
- Beta-adrenergic drugs
If you are taking any of these drugs, you may be required to stop taking them or reduce their dosage or the dosage of Duovent UDV.
As other drugs, including herbal and non-prescription drugs, can also interact with Ipratropium and Fenoterol, you should inform your doctor about all the drugs you are taking prior to starting treatment with Duovent UDV.