Pulmonary - Critical Care Associates
of East Texas

Jeffrey M. Shea, M.D., F.C.C.P.
Catherine M. Martinez, M.D.

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ATROVENT INHALER

Generic Name: IPRATROPIUM (ip-ruh-TROW-pee-um) ORAL INHALER

Atrovent Inhaler COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Atrovent

USES: This medication is inhaled into the lungs where it dilates breathing passages. It is used to treat breathing difficulties caused by chronic, obstructive disorders of the lungs such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: You should receive an instruction sheet on the proper use of the inhaler device. Have your doctor or pharmacist demonstrate how to use the inhaler.

Rinse your mouth after using the inhaler to help prevent dryness and relieve throat irritation.

This medication works best when the level in your blood is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking each dose at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Do not use this medication for acute attacks of breathing spasms where a rapid response is required.

Do not stop using this medication suddenly without consulting your doctor. Stopping the medication suddenly may lead to worsening of symptoms.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause dizziness, headache, nausea, dry mouth, cough, hoarseness, or blurred vision. These effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor.

Rarely occurs, but notify your doctor if you experience a skin rash, hives, mouth or lip sores, or difficulty swallowing while taking this medication.

If the drug is accidentally sprayed in the eye, temporary blurring of vision may occur.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor your medical history especially of glaucoma, prostate trouble or any allergies (especially to atropine or other belladonna derivatives, soya lecithin or soybean or peanuts)

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known if the ipratropium is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription or prescription medication you may take particularly antispasmodics (e.g., atropine, clidinium, propantheline), antihistamines (often found in cough/cold preparations) or medication for Parkinson's disease.

NOTES: There are approximately 200 inhalations in each aerosol container.

MISSED DOSE: If used on a regular schedule, use as soon as remembered. Use remaining doses for the day at evenly spaced intervals.

STORAGE: This medication should be stored at room temperature. Avoid freezing.


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