Abstract

Duovent (WB Pharmaceuticals) is a fixed-dose combination aerosol containing fenoterol (100 μg per puff) - a β₂-adrenoceptor stimulant, and ipratropium (40 μg per puff) - an atropine-like agent. It is marketed for the treatment of bronchoconstriction in patients with asthma, chronic bronchitis or emphysema. The manufacturer claims that it is a ‘logical combination’ offering ‘first line treatment’, but the British National Formulary¹ states that compound bronchodilators (including Duovent) ‘have no place in the management of patients with airways obstruction’.