Ipratropium
 
What is Ipratropium and why is it prescribed?
Ipratropium inhalation aerosol and solution are prescribed for long-term treatment of bronchial spasms associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. When inhaled, Ipratropium opens the air passages, allowing more oxygen to reach the lungs. Ipratropium nasal spray relieves runny nose. The 0.03% spray is used for year-round runny nose due to allergies and other causes. The 0.06% spray is prescribed for hay fever and for runny nose due to colds. The spray does not relieve nasal congestion or sneezing. Ipratropium inhalation aerosol and solution are not for initial use in acute attacks of bronchial spasm when fast action is needed.

How should you take Ipratropium?
Follow your doctors directions for taking Ipratropium. Ipratropium inhalation aerosol and solution are not intended for occasional use. To get the most benefit from Ipratropium, 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 Ipratropium 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 two doses at once. All forms of Ipratropium 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.

Are there any Ipratropium side effects?
Ipratropium side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Ipratropium side effects for the inhalation aerosol and solution may include blurred vision, breathlessness, bronchitis, cough, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, irritation from aerosol, nausea, nervousness, rash, stomach and intestinal upset, wheezing, and worsening of symptoms. Less common or rare Ipratropium side effects for the inhalation aerosol and solution may include allergic reactions, constipation, coordination difficulty, difficulty in urinating, drowsiness, fatigue, flushing, hives, hoarseness, inability to fall or stay asleep, increased heart rate, itching, low blood pressure, loss of hair, mouth sores, palpitations, prostate problems, sharp eye pain, swelling of the tongue, lips, and face, tightening of the throat, tingling sensation, tremors, and urinary tract infection. Ipratropium side effects for the nasal spray may include blurred vision, change in taste, conjunctivitis, 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/ bitching/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, and upper respiratory infection.

What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Ipratropium?
If Ipratropium is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. When using the aerosol or solution, do not take other inhaled medications unless your doctor approves. Check with your doctor before combining Ipratropium with spasm-quelling medications such as Donnatal and Levsin.

Are there any special warnings about Ipratropium?
An immediate allergic reaction is possible when you first use Ipratropium. Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take Ipratropium if you have the eye condition called narrow-angle glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or obstruction in the neck of the bladder. Keep Ipratropium away from your eyes. It can cause blurred vision, visual halos and colors, red eyes, pain, or even narrow-angle glaucoma. If any of these symptoms develop, see your doctor immediately. If you develop eye pain, blurred vision, very dry nose, or nosebleeds after using the nasal spray, call your doctor. Do not increase your use of Ipratropium without your doctor's approval. If the drug begins to lose its effect, check with your doctor immediately.
 

Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor.
 

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