Atrovent
What
is ipratropium aerosol inhaler or solution for inhalation?
IPRATROPIUM (Atrovent®) is a bronchodilator, a medicine that helps
people with lung problems to breathe more easily. It works by opening
up the air passages in your lungs. It is not to be used alone for
treating an acute attack of breathing problems, as it takes some time
to work. A generic ipratropium aerosol inhaler is not yet available,
but generic ipratropium solution for inhalation is available.
Atrovent Inhl Precautions
Before using ipratropium, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are
allergic to it; or to peanuts, soybean, soya lecithin, atropine, other
belladonna-type drugs; or if you have any other allergies. (For patients
using the ipratropium HFA inhaler, the peanut/soybean/soya lecithin
allergy warning does not apply.)
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: narrow angle glaucoma, trouble urinating, enlarged prostate.
Although unlikely, this medication may cause dizziness. It may also cause temporary blurred vision or other vision changes if accidentally sprayed into your eyes. If these effects occur, use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness and clear vision such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
How
should you take this medication?
Atrovent inhalation aerosol and solution are not intended for occasional
use. To get the most benefit from this drug, you must use it consistently
throughout your course of treatment, as prescribed by your doctor.
To take the inhalation aerosol, insert the metal canister in the special Atrovent mouthpiece and shake well. Holding the canister upside down, exhale deeply through the mouth, enclose the mouthpiece with your lips, and inhale slowly through the mouth while firmly pressing once on the base of the upended canister. Hold your breath for 10 seconds then exhale. Wait 15 seconds and repeat. Test spray the canister 3 times whenever it has not been used for 24 hours. Be careful to avoid spraying in the eyes.
The nasal spray pump must be primed; your doctor will show you how.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
All forms of Atrovent may be stored at room temperature. Do not freeze.
Keep the inhalation aerosol away from heat and flame; the canister could burst. Discard after 200 sprays. Keep the nasal spray tightly closed.
What
are the possible side effects of ipratropium inhalation?
• Stop using ipratropium inhalation and get emergency medical
help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives;
difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Call your doctor at once if you have a fast, pounding heartbeat.
• Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur,
such as:
· headache, dizziness;
· dry mouth, cough, hoarseness;
· nausea, upset stomach; or
· blurred vision.
• If you switch from Atrovent to Atrovent HFA, you may notice
a slightly different taste or feel after inhaling the medication.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur.
Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that
is especially bothersome.
