Generic Atrovent, aerosol

Chemical Name: IPRATROPIUM BROMIDE

Common uses

This medicine is an anticholinergic agent used to prevent the symptoms of emphysema or chronic bronchitis. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including glaucoma, prostate problems, or difficulty urinating, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may come with an instruction leaflet. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have before using this medicine. Before using this medicine, be sure that the canister is properly inserted into the inhaler unit and shake well. Exhale slowly. Unless your doctor has told you otherwise, position the mouthpiece between your lips and try to rest your tongue flat. If your doctor instructed you to use a special spacing device, follow those directions. As you start to take a slow, deep breath, press the canister and mouthpiece together at exactly the same time to administer a dose of this medicine. Continue inhaling slowly and deeply and hold your breath for as long as comfortable, then exhale slowly through pursed lips or through your nose. If more than 1 inhalation is to be used, wait 15 seconds and repeat the above process. Rinse your mouth after using the inhaler to help prevent dry mouth and relieve throat irritation.

Keep the spray away from your eyes. Keep track of the number of sprays you use and subtract this number from the number of doses in the container. This will help you know when the container is becoming empty. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Do not puncture, break, or burn container, even if it appears empty. If you miss a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as possible, then go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Cautions

This medicine contains soya lecithin. If you are allergic to soya lecithin, soybeans, or peanuts, check with your doctor before using this medicine. This medicine will not stop an asthma attack once one has started. If you are also using a bronchodilator inhaler, be sure to always carry the bronchodilator inhaler with you to use during asthma attacks. After you begin using this medicine, a few weeks may pass before the full benefit is obtained. Continue to use it as directed during this time.

Do not exceed the recommended dose without checking with your doctor. Do not stop using this medicine without first checking with your doctor. Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using this medicine. If you are having difficulty using this medicine or are having side effects like mouth sores or bad taste, ask your doctor or pharmacist about using a spacing device. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

For women: it is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include nervousness, dizziness, headache, nausea, upset stomach, dry mouth, throat irritation, or cough. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience a rapid or irregular heart rate. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.