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Ipratropium is used to treat lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It relaxes the muscles around your airways so that they open up and you breathe more easily. This medication is a type of bronchodilator.In general, use your quick-relief inhaler (e.g., albuterol) for acute attacks of shortness of breath unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Ipratropium does not work as fast as your quick-relief inhaler, but if so prescribed by your doctor you may use it to relieve an acute attack.This medication may also be used in combination with other drugs to treat asthma in select patients.
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| Overview |
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How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
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Uses
Ipratropium is used to treat lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It relaxes the muscles around your airways so that they open up and you breathe more easily. This medication is a type of bronchodilator.In general, use your quick-relief inhaler (e.g., albuterol) for acute attacks of shortness of breath unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Ipratropium does not work as fast as your quick-relief inhaler, but if so prescribed by your doctor you may use it to relieve an acute attack.This medication may also be used in combination with other drugs to treat asthma in select patients.
Notes
- Do not share this medication with others.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
- Do not puncture or expose this medication to high heat or open flame.
- Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
How To Use
- Read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with this product.
- Learn how to use this medication properly.
- Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.Shake the canister well before using (if using the ipratropium HFA inhaler, you do not need to shake the ipratropium HFA inhaler before using it).
- It is recommended that you use a spacer device with this medication.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.You should do some test sprays before using a canister for the first time or if it hasn't been used for more than a day.Inhale this medication by mouth usually 4 times a day, or as directed by your doctor.
- Close your eyes and place your lips tightly around the mouthpiece to avoid spraying any of this medication into your eyes.
- This will minimize the risk of temporary blurred vision, other vision changes, and eye irritation.If two inhalations/puffs are prescribed, wait at least one minute between them.
- If you are using other inhalers at the same time, wait several minutes between each medication.Rinse your mouth after using this inhaler to prevent dry mouth and throat irritation.If you are directed to take this medication regularly, it works best if used consistently at evenly spaced intervals.
- Remember to use it at the same times each day.
- Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently, or stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor.
- Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.Keep track of the number of inhalations you use, and throw away the canister after you have used the labeled number of inhalations on the package.Be sure you understand which of your inhalers you should use on a regular daily basis and which you should use for acute attacks.
- Consult your doctor about what you should do in case of worsening shortness of breath or cough, increased sputum, or worsening peak flow meter readings (whether you can self-medicate and when you must seek immediate medical attention).Inform your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.
Side Effects
- See also How to Use.Dry mouth, dry throat, a bad taste in your mouth, or cough may occur as your body adjusts to this drug.
- Nervousness, dizziness, headache, nausea, constipation, or stomach upset may also occur.
- If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, vision changes, eye pain, increased wheezing/trouble breathing, trouble urinating.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
- Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before using ipratropium, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to peanuts, soybean, soya lecithin, atropine, other belladonna-type drugs; or if you have any other allergies.
- (For patients using the ipratropium HFA inhaler, the peanut/soybean/soya lecithin allergy warning does not apply.)Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: narrow angle glaucoma, trouble urinating, enlarged prostate.Although unlikely, this medication may cause dizziness.
- It may also cause temporary blurred vision or other vision changes if accidentally sprayed into your eyes.
- If these effects occur, use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness and clear vision such as driving or using machinery.
- Limit alcoholic beverages.This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
- Use the remaining doses for the day at evenly spaced intervals.
- Do not double the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
- Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it.
- Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine, meclizine), anti-spasmodic drugs (e.g., dicyclomine, hyoscyamine), drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease (e.g., benztropine, trihexyphenidyl), muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine), certain psychiatric medicines (phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), pramlintide, tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, imipramine).
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
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