What is Atrovent Inhaler?

Atrovent Inhaler contains the medication Ipratropium. Ipratropium is used to control and prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD which includes bronchitis and emphysema). It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school. For preventing symptoms of lung disease, this medication must be used regularly to be effective. Use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) for wheezing or sudden shortness of breath unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Ipratropium does not work as fast as your quick-relief inhaler, but may sometimes be used to relieve symptoms of wheezing or sudden shortness of breath if so prescribed by your doctor.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• The canister provides about 200 inhalations, depending on the size of the canister your doctor ordered. You should try to keep a record of the number of inhalations you use so you will know when the canister is almost empty. This canister, unlike some other aerosol canisters, cannot be floated in water to test its fullness.
• When you use the inhaler for the first time, or if you have not used it for a while, the inhaler may not give the right amount of medicine with the first puff. Therefore, before using the inhaler, test or prime it.
• Using your thumb and one or two fingers, hold the inhaler upright, with the mouthpiece end down and pointing toward you.
• Take the cap off the mouthpiece. Check the mouthpiece to make sure it is clear. Then, gently shake the inhaler three or four times.
• Breathe out slowly to the end of a normal breath.
• Use the inhalation method recommended by your doctor: Open-mouth method—Place the mouthpiece about 1 or 2 inches (2 finger-widths) in front of your widely opened mouth. Make sure the inhaler is aimed into your mouth so the spray does not hit the roof of your mouth or your tongue. Closed-mouth method—Place the mouthpiece in your mouth between your teeth and over your tongue with your lips closed tightly around it. Make sure your tongue or teeth are not blocking the opening
• Start to breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth. At the same time, press the top of the canister once to get one puff of medicine. Continue to breathe in slowly for 5 to 10 seconds. Count the seconds while breathing in. It is important to press the canister and breathe in slowly at the same time so the medicine gets into your lungs.
• Hold your breath as long as you can up to 10 seconds. This gives the medicine time to settle into your airways and lungs.
• Take the mouthpiece away from your mouth and breathe out slowly.
• When you are finished, wipe off the mouthpiece and replace the cap.
• Clean the inhaler, mouthpiece, and spacer at least once a week.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type), difficulty urinating (for example, due to enlarged prostate).
• If you are using marijuana.
• If you are breast feeding.

Also be aware that:

• This drug may make you dizzy or blur your vision or cause vision changes. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially problems urinating or constipation.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.

Infrequently, this medication may cause severe sudden worsening of breathing problems right after use. If you have sudden worsening of breathing, use your quick-relief inhaler and get medical help right away. Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Dizziness, nausea, stomach upset, dry mouth, or constipation.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Fast/pounding heartbeat, difficult/painful urination.
• Eye pain/swelling/redness, vision changes (such as seeing rainbows around lights at night, blurred vision).
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling especially of the face, tongue or throat, severe dizziness or trouble breathing.

Q: What special dietary instructions should I follow?

A: Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

Q: What should I do if I forget a dose?

A: Use the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one.