Atrovent (Ipratropium bromide) for asthma

Overview
Atrovent is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Atrovent is sometimes prescribed off-label to treat asthma. Atrovent is also known by its drug name, Ipratropium bromide.

Atrovent is an anticholinergic and a bronchodilator, a drug that dilates the bronchi and bronchioles in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. Atrovent is believed to work by relaxing smooth muscles in the airways. Atrovent is considered a short-acting bronchodilator.

How do I take it?
Atrovent is taken orally using an inhaler four times a day.

Atrovent comes in canister form.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Atrovent lists common side effects, including headache, bronchitis, COPD exacerbation, and trouble breathing.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Atrovent include worsening of glaucoma, worsening of urinary issues, hypersensitivity reactions, and paradoxical bronchospasm (bronchospasm caused by taking medication).

For more details about this treatment, visit:
Atrovent — Boehringer Ingelheim
www.atrovent.com