Atrovent (ipratropium bromide)

Atrovent is a prescription medicine used to improve airflow in people with obstructive airway diseases. It contains the active ingredient ipratropium bromide, which belongs to a group of medicines known as anticholinergic bronchodilators.

Bronchodilators are medicines that help open the airways in the lungs. In conditions such as COPD or asthma, the airways can become narrowed due to muscle tightening, inflammation, and increased mucus production. This narrowing can cause shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness.

Atrovent is administered by inhalation, meaning the medicine is delivered directly into the lungs. This allows it to act locally on the airways while limiting systemic exposure compared to oral medications.

Atrovent is not a steroid and does not reduce inflammation in the same way as inhaled corticosteroids. Instead, it works by relaxing airway muscles through a different mechanism.

Atrovent is a prescription-only medicine. Through Transtoyou, it is supplied to adults following individual medical assessment.

What is it used for?

Atrovent is used to relieve bronchospasm (tightening of the airway muscles) associated with:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Chronic bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Asthma (in certain cases, usually as an add-on therapy)

In COPD, the airways are chronically narrowed and inflamed, which leads to persistent breathing difficulties. Atrovent helps widen the airways and improve airflow.

In asthma, Atrovent may be used in combination with other bronchodilators or inhaled corticosteroids, particularly when additional bronchodilation is required.

Atrovent is typically used as a maintenance or relief treatment depending on the prescribed regimen. It is not intended to replace fast-acting emergency rescue treatments unless specifically advised by a physician.

How does it work?

Atrovent contains ipratropium bromide, an anticholinergic agent. It works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a natural chemical messenger in the body.

Acetylcholine plays a role in causing the muscles around the airways to contract. When these muscles tighten, the airways narrow, making it harder to breathe.

By blocking acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the airway muscles, Atrovent prevents this tightening. As a result:

• The airway muscles relax
• The airways widen
• Airflow improves
• Breathing becomes easier

Because Atrovent is inhaled, its action is mainly local in the lungs. Its effects typically begin within a short period after inhalation and last for several hours.

Who should not use Atrovent?

Atrovent should not be used in the following situations:

• Allergy to ipratropium bromide
• Allergy to atropine or atropine-like substances
• Hypersensitivity to any of the product ingredients

Caution is required in patients with:

• Narrow-angle glaucoma
• Prostatic enlargement
• Bladder outflow obstruction
• Cystic fibrosis
• Severe cardiovascular disease

Because Atrovent may cause pupil dilation if it comes into contact with the eyes, special care should be taken to avoid spraying the inhaled solution into the eyes.

Atrovent is prescribed to adults via this platform and is not supplied to individuals under 18 years of age.

Dosage and use

Always use Atrovent exactly as prescribed by your physician.

The usual adult dose is two inhalations three to four times daily. In general, no more than 12 inhalations should be used within 24 hours.

The inhaler should be primed before first use by releasing two test sprays into the air. If not used for more than three days, release one test spray before use.

To inhale:

1. Breathe out fully.
2. Place the mouthpiece between your lips.
3. Begin to breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth.
4. Press the canister once while continuing to inhale.
5. Hold your breath for a few seconds before breathing out slowly.

If a second inhalation is prescribed, repeat the steps.

The inhaler contains 200 actuations and should be replaced after 200 doses, even if some liquid appears to remain.

Do not exceed the prescribed dose. If your symptoms worsen or become less controlled, seek medical reassessment.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, Atrovent may cause side effects.

Common side effects may include:

• Dry mouth
• Throat irritation
• Cough
• Headache
• Dizziness

Less common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Urinary retention
• Palpitations
• Blurred vision (if the medicine comes into contact with the eyes)

Rare but serious side effects may include:

• Paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening of breathing immediately after use)
• Severe allergic reactions
• Eye pain or visual disturbances

If you experience sudden worsening of breathing, seek urgent medical attention.

Important safety information

Atrovent is intended for the management of chronic airway conditions and should be used consistently as prescribed.

Important considerations include:

• Avoid contact with the eyes during inhalation.
• Use correct inhalation technique.
• Do not rely on Atrovent alone if you have severe asthma unless directed by a physician.
• Inform your physician about heart conditions or urinary problems.

Atrovent may be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only after medical assessment.

Because it acts locally in the lungs, systemic drug interactions are uncommon. However, combining it with other anticholinergic medicines may increase side effects.

When to seek medical help

Seek urgent medical attention if:

• Breathing becomes suddenly worse
• You experience chest tightness after inhalation
• Severe allergic symptoms occur
• You develop eye pain or visual disturbances

Consult a physician if:

• Symptoms do not improve
• You need to use your inhaler more frequently
• You experience persistent side effects