What is Atrovent?
Atrovent is an inhaled prescription medicine used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), together with chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Its generic name is ipratropium bromide.
It belongs to a group of drugs called anticholinergic bronchodilators, or SAMAs (short-acting muscarinic antagonists). It relaxes the muscles around your airways, which then helps to reduce wheezing, breathlessness, and chest tightness.[1]
How does Atrovent work for COPD?
Atrovent blocks certain nerve signals (muscarinic receptors) that normally cause your airway muscles to tighten. By doing this, it prevents your airways from narrowing, which then makes it easier to move air in and out of your lungs.[1]
Unlike fast “rescue” inhalers such as albuterol, Atrovent is designed for maintenance therapy. That means it helps keep your airways open when used regularly, but it isn’t a quick fix for sudden breathing problems.
Will I get side effects using Atrovent?
Like all medicines, you might experience side effects with Atrovent, but not every person will present them. The most common are:
- dry mouth,
- cough,
- sore throat,
- dizziness,
- nausea,
- or constipation.
Some people also might notice cold-like symptoms like a runny nose or sinus irritation.
Less commonly, Atrovent can increase your heart rate or cause palpitations, especially in people who have any sensitivity to anticholinergic medicines.
Serious allergic reactions are rare but if you get a rash, swelling, or trouble breathing, seek medical help straight away.
What forms of Atrovent are there?
Ipratropium – the active ingredient in Atrovent – comes in several forms:
- Inhaler (metered-dose aerosol)
- Nebulizer solution
- Nasal spray – this is typically used for runny noses and allergies
Your doctor will decide which form and dosing schedule is right for you, depending on your symptoms and health needs.
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