Brand Name
Atrovent Nasal Spray
Common Name
ipratropium nasal spray
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 02163705 | ATROVENT NASAL SPRAY 0.03% 21µG PER SPRAY |
| 02163713 | ATROVENT NASAL SPRAY 0.06% 42µG PER SPRAY |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Ipratropium belongs to the family of medications called anticholinergics. Ipratropium nasal spray comes in two strengths that are used for different purposes. The 0.03% strength is used to relieve a runny nose caused by seasonal or perennial (year-round) allergies. The 0.06% strength is used to treat a runny nose caused by the common cold. The medication works by stopping mucus glands in the nose from overproducing the watery mucus that leads to a runny nose. Ipratropium nasal spray begins to work within 15 minutes.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are using this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose of ipratropium nasal spray for runny nose due to allergies is 2 sprays (0.03% strength) in each nostril two or three times per day.
The recommended dose for runny nose due to the common cold is 2 sprays (0.06% strength) in each nostril three or four times per day as needed. This medication has only been studied for up to four days of use for the common cold. Efficacy and safety of treatment beyond four days have not been established.
Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
Before using this medication for the first time, the pump must be primed. To do this, remove the cap and safety clip. Then, hold the bottle with your thumb at the base and your index and middle fingers on the shoulder area of the pump. Point the bottle upright and away from your eyes. Press your thumb firmly and quickly against the bottle 7 times. You will need to reprime the pump with 1 or 2 sprays if you have not used it for 24 hours.
To use this medication:
- Blow your nose gently to clear your nostrils if needed.
- Remove the cap and safety clip.
- Close one nostril by gently placing your finger against the side of your nose, tilt your head slightly forward, and keeping the bottle the upright, insert the nasal tip into the other nostril. Point the tip toward the back and outer side of the nose.
- Press firmly and quickly upwards with the thumb at the base while holding the shoulder portion of the pump between your index and middle fingers. Following each spray, sniff deeply and breathe out through your mouth.
- After spraying the nostril and removing the pump, tilt your head backwards for a few seconds to let the spray spread over the back of the nose.
- Repeat step 3 through 5 in the other nostril.
- Replace the cap and safety clip.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from excessive heat and freezing, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
0.03%
Each spray is designed to deliver 0.07 mL, which contains ipratropium bromide 21 µg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: benzalkonium chloride, edetate disodium, hydrochloric acid, sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide and purified water. Bottles of 30 mL, fitted with a metered nasal spray pump, a safety clip to prevent accidental discharge of the spray, and a clear plastic dust cap.
0.06%
Each spray is designed to deliver 0.07 mL, which contains ipratropium bromide 42 µg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: benzalkonium chloride, edetate disodium, hydrochloric acid, sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide and purified water. Bottles of 15 mL, fitted with a metered nasal spray pump, a safety clip to prevent accidental discharge of the spray, and a clear plastic dust cap.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Ipratropium nasal spray should not be used by anyone who is allergic to ipratropium, to atropine (or medications related to atropine), or to any of the ingredients of the medication.
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