Atrovent (Ipratropium)

Description

Atrovent is known as anticholinergic bronchodilator. Its main component is ipratropium bromide.

 

Uses

 

Atrovent is an inhalant form of treatment that is used to diminish the symptoms associated with several lung diseases. It improves the breathing actions of individuals with bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Bronchospasms are a common occurrence in individuals who have breathing difficulties.

 

It involves the narrowing of the bronchioles in the lungs. This results in the constricting of the airways. This can make it difficult for air to go in and out of the lungs, resulting in breathing problems.

 

Atrovent reduces these symptoms by causing the muscles of the bronchioles to relax. This allows the airways to enlarge, allowing air to pass through more easily. The inhaled medication inhibits the work of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine.

 

Contact your doctor to find out any other uses that Atrovent may have.

 

Dosage

 

You should always follow the prescription provided to you by a healthcare specialist. You should not take Atrovent in doses that are lower or higher than has been recommended by your physician.

 

Atrovent should be inhaled.

 

The dosage that is recommended for this medication is two inhalations. Atrovent should be inhaled four times a day.

 

Atrovent can be used additionally, as needed. It is best not to inhale the medication more than twelve times during a single day.

 

In the event of an overdose, contact your local medical emergency services immediately.

 

Side Effects

 

There have been side effects reported with the use of Atrovent. The more common adverse reactions that have been experienced with this medication are:

 

 Discomfort in the bladder
 Cloudiness of urine
 Presence of blood in urine
 Wet cough
 Difficulty urinating
 Discomfort when urinating
 Problems with breathing
 Discomfort in the body
 Wheezing sounds when breathing

 

The less frequent side effects experienced when taking this medication are:

 

 Congestion of the ear
 Fever
 Headache
 Difficulty with speaking
 Fatigue
 Excess production of mucus in the nasal passages
 Inflammation of the throat
 Infrequent bowel movements
 Discomfort in the abdomen
 Loss of consciousness
 Erratic heartbeat
 Extreme discomfort in the eyes
 Irritation of the skin
 Presence of rash on the skin
 Swelling on the face or facial features

 

If you experience any of these adverse reactions to Atrovent, inform your physician immediately.

 

Contraindications

 

 Tell your doctor if you have become pregnant and have been prescribed with Atrovent. You should seek medical advice from your physician before beginning to breastfeed your child.

 

 Do not take this medication if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Atrovent.

 

 This medication is not suitable for individuals who are also allergic to atropine.

 

 Inform your physician if you are taking any other anticholinergic medications. You have an increased risk of experiencing the adverse effects of these medications if taken with Atrovent.

 

 The effect of Atrovent on certain medical ailments should be monitored closely. You should inform your doctor if you have any eye difficulties, prostate problems, or an obstruction of the urinary tract.

 

 Tell your physician of any medications, prescribed or over the counter, which you may be taking. You should also inform your doctor about any herbal supplements that you may be taking.