Ipratropium Bromide Nebulizer solution Health Article

Generic name(s):

Ipratropium Bromide Nebulizer solution

Brand name(s):

Atrovent, Atrovent HFA, Ipratropium Bromide

What is this medicine?

IPRATROPIUM (i pra TROE pee um) is a bronchodilator. It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breathe. This medicine is used to prevent bronchospasms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Do not use this medicine alone for an acute attack of bronchospasm.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• bladder problems or difficulty passing urine
• glaucoma
• heart disease or irregular heartbeat
• prostate trouble
• an unusual or allergic reaction to ipratropium, atropine, bromides, soya protein, peanut oil, soybeans or peanuts, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is used in a nebulizer. Nebulizers make a liquid into an aerosol that you breathe in through your mouth or your mouth and nose into your lungs. You will be taught how to use your nebulizer. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not use more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Ask your health care professional before you mix any medicines in the same dose of your nebulizer.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular checks on your progress. Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve. Do not use extra medicine. If your breathing gets worse or if you need short acting inhalers more often, call your doctor right away.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• difficulty breathing or wheezing that increases or does not go away
• dizziness
• eye pain
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• infection or fever

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• blurred vision
• cough
• dry mouth
• headache
• nausea or constipation
• trouble passing urine

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.