Sign inBefore using ipratropium
Before taking ipratropium make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have glaucoma.
- If you have prostate problems.
- If you have cystic fibrosis.
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to use ipratropium
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and make sure you know how to use your inhaler properly. If you are not sure, ask your nurse, doctor or pharmacist to show you.
- Ipratropium is a reliever medication. It is usually used three or four times a day.
- Try to use this inhaler at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
Getting the most from your treatment
- It is particularly important that your breathing is well controlled if you are pregnant. Make sure your doctor knows if you are expecting or trying for a baby.
- Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will want to review your condition on a regular basis.
- If you find that your symptoms are getting worse or that you need to use reliever medication more regularly, contact your doctor or nurse for advice straight away.
- Do not smoke. Smoking causes severe irritation and damage to the lungs. It will make your condition worse and will reduce the beneficial effects of your medication.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Can ipratropium cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Possible side-effects | What can I do if I experience this |
| Dry mouth | Try chewing sugar-free gum or sweets |
| Constipation | Try to eat a well balanced diet containing plenty of fibre and drink 6-8 glasses of water each day. If constipation continues to be a problem speak to your pharmacist or doctor |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the headache continues speak with your doctor |
| Dizziness | Make sure your reactions are normal before doing any jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert |
| Nausea and vomiting | Eat little and often and stick to simple foods |
| Blurred vision (if you are using the dry powder capsules or nebules) | Take care to protect your eyes |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store ipratropium
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- Manufacturer's PIL, Atrovent Inhaler®, Boehringer Ingelheim Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated November 2010 .
- British National Formulary; 61st Edition (March 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)