Atrovent HFA
Generic name:ipratropium inhalation [ IP-ra-TRO-pee-um ]
Brand names: Atrovent HFA, Atrovent
Drug class:Anticholinergic bronchodilators
What is Atrovent HFA?
Atrovent is a bronchodilator that relaxes muscles in the airways and increases air flow to the lungs.
Atrovent is used to to prevent bronchospasm, or narrowing airways in the lungs, in people with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Atrovent HFA may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Do not get Atrovent HFA in your eyes, especially if you have glaucoma.
Atrovent HFA will not work fast enough to treat an bronchospasm attack that has already begun. It is used for prevention of an attack only. Use only a fast acting inhalation medicine to treat an bronchospasm attack.
Seek medical attention if your breathing problems get worse quickly, or if you think your medications are not working as well.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Atrovent HFA if you are allergic to ipratropium or atropine.
To make sure Atrovent HFA is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
glaucoma;
an enlarged prostate; or
bladder obstruction or other urination problems.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Atrovent HFA aerosol should not be used by anyone younger than 18 years old. Atrovent inhalation solution is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.
How should I use Atrovent HFA?
Use Atrovent HFA exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.
Do not use more than 12 Atrovent HFA inhalations in a 24-hour period.
If you are using this medicine with a nebulizer, space your doses 6 to 8 hours apart.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
Before your first use of Atrovent HFA aerosol, prime the inhaler with 2 test sprays into the air, away from your face. Prime again whenever the inhaler has not been used in longer than 3 days. You do not need to shake this medicine before each use.
Atrovent HFA is not a rescue medicine for bronchospasm attacks. Use only fast-acting inhalation medicine for an attack. Seek medical attention if your breathing problems get worse quickly, or if you think your medications are not working as well.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the cover on your inhaler when not in use. Keep away from open flame or high heat. The canister may ...
