Brand Name
Atrovent Inhalation Aerosol
Common Name
ipratropium bromide aerosol
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 02247686 | ATROVENT HFA 20 µG/METERED DOSE INHALATION AEROSOL |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Ipratropium belongs to the class of medications called bronchodilators. It is used to treat spasms in the lungs associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It works by opening the airways to make breathing easier.
Ipratropium inhalation aerosol should not be used to treat acute breathing problems where rapid results are required. Inhalers that contain "reliever" medications with fast action (e.g., salbutamol, terbutaline) should be used for acute treatment of breathing problems.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones 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 taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking 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 take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dosage of ipratropium inhalation aerosol is two metered doses 3 or 4 times daily. The most beneficial dose must be determined individually. Some people may need up to 4 metered doses at a time to obtain the best benefit when first starting treatment. The maximum daily dose should not be more than 12 metered doses, and the minimum time between doses should not be less than 4 hours.
Many things can affect the dose of 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 taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of scheduled medication, use it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not take 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.
Your doctor or pharmacist should instruct you on proper use of the medication. Also refer to the information pamphlet provided with the medication. Always shake the unit well before using. If you have been instructed to use 2 inhalations per dose, wait one minute between inhalations.
Store the aerosol canister at room temperature and do not place in hot water or near radiators, stoves, or other sources of heat. Protect it from light and moisture 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?
Ipratropium is available as an aerosol for inhalation.
Each valve depression (actuation) delivers ipratropium 20 µg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: citric acid, ethanol, water, and propellant (HFA 134a - 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane).
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 bromide aerosol should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to ipratropium or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is allergic to atropine-like medications in general
Did you find what you were looking for on our website? Please let us know.
