Information about Ipratropium bromide (Generic Atrovent) :


Ipratropium bromide inhalation aerosol is prescribed for long-term treatment of bronchial spasms (wheezing) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Ipratropium bromide helps to open the air passages, allowing more oxygen to reach the lungs.

Ipratropium bromide nasal spray helps to relieve runny nose. The 0.03% spray is taken for year-round runny nose due to allergies and other causes. The 0.06% spray is taken for hay fever and for runny nose due to colds. It does not work to relieve nasal congestion or sneezing.

Most important fact about Ipratropium bromide:
Ipratropium bromide inhalation aerosol and solution are not used to relieve acute attacks of bronchial spasm. Be aware that it is not for fast action.

How should you take Ipratropium bromide?
For the best results it is recommended to take regularly throughout the whole course of treatment. Be aware that it is not for occasional use.

Before using the inhalation aerosol, you should insert the metal canister in the special Ipratropium bromide mouthpiece and shake it well. Then, 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 at least 10 seconds then exhale. Wait 15 seconds and repeat. It is recommended to test spray the canister 3 times in case it has not been used for 24 hours. Avoid spraying in the eyes.

Your doctor should show you how to prime a nasal spray pump.

In case you miss a dose of Ipratropium bromide, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next intake, skip the missed dose and take it according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take double doses to catch up.

Ipratropium bromide should be kept at indoor temperature. Avoid freezing. The inhalation aerosol should be kept away from heat and flame as the canister could burst. Do not forget to discard it after 200 sprays. The nasal spray should be kept tightly closed.

What side effects may occur?
It is unlikely to have side-effects while taking Ipratropium bromide. In case you notice any change in intensity, consult with your doctor as soon as possible. It is important to determine whether it is safe for you to continue using Ipratropium bromide.

Inhalation Aerosol and Solution.
While taking inhalation aerosol and solution you may experience: blurred vision, breathlessness, bronchitis, cough, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, irritation from aerosol, nausea, nervousness, rash, stomach and intestinal upset, wheezing, worsening of symptoms.

Nasal Spray.
While taking nasal spray you may experience: blurred vision, change in taste, conjunctivitis ("pinkeye"), cough, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth/throat, eye irritation, headache, hoarseness, increased runny nose or nasal inflammation, inflamed nasal ulcers, nasal congestion, nasal dryness, nasal irritation/itching/burning, nasal tumors, nausea, nosebleed, pain, posterior nasal drip, pounding heartbeat, ringing in the ears, sinus inflammation, skin rash, sneezing, sore throat, swollen nose, thirst, upper respiratory infection

Why should Ipratropium bromide not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Ipratropium bromide or any of its ingredients, or to soybeans, soy lecithin, or peanuts, you should not take Ipratropium bromide.

You should not use Ipratropium bromide in case you are allergic to drugs based on atropine. Tell your doctor about any drug reactions you have had.

Special warnings about Ipratropium bromide
It is possible to have an immediate allergic reaction that includes hives, swelling, rash, wheezing when you first take Ipratropium bromide.

You should not use Ipratropium bromide without medical consultation in case you have narrow-angle glaucoma (high pressure inside the eye), an enlarged prostate, or obstruction in the neck of the bladder.

Avoid getting Ipratropium bromide into your eyes. It may lead to blurred vision, visual halos and colors, red eyes, pain, or even narrow-angle glaucoma. In case you experience any of these symptoms, consult with your doctor immediately.

In case you have eye pain, blurred vision, very dry noses, or nosebleeds after taking the nasal spray, tell your doctor.

Do not increase a dose of Ipratropium bromide or take it more often that prescribed without medical consultation. In case the drug becomes less effective, consult with your doctor right away.

You should not take other inhaled medications unless your doctor recommends, while taking Ipratropium bromide. Consult with your doctor before taking Ipratropium bromide in combination with spasm-quelling drugs such as Donnatal and Levsin.

PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING:
In case you are pregnant or plan pregnancy, consult with your doctor right away. It is not clear if Ipratropium bromide passes into breast milk. If Ipratropium bromide is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing your baby until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage
AEROSOL OR SOLUTION: The start dose is 2 inhalations, 4 times daily. Additional inhalations may be taken, but the total should not exceed 12 in 24 hours. Do not use in children under 12. NASAL SPRAY 0.03%: The usual dose is 2 sprays in each nostril 2 or 3 times daily. Do not use in children under 6.
NASAL SPRAY 0.06%
Runny Nose due to Colds
For adults: 2 sprays in each nostril 3 or 4 times daily.
For children: age 5 to 11 is 2 sprays in each nostril 3 times daily. You should not use for more than 4 days and do not give it to children under 5.
Runny Nose due to Hay Fever
For adults and children 5 and over 2 sprays in each nostril 4 times daily.
It is safe to use it for hay fever for up to 3 weeks.

What is the expiration date of the pills?
This information is mentioned on each blister. The expiration date is 2 years from the date of manufacture.