Allergy, Asthma, Immunology Medications

Ipratropium Bromide Inhalation

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(eye-pruh-TRO-pee-um BRO-myde)

Definition | Special instructions | Missed dose | Side effects | Warning signs | Contact us

What is ipratropium bromide?

Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent", Atrovent HFA") is a type of quick-relief medicine used to open the bronchi, which are the airways of the lungs. This medicine relaxes the muscles around the airways. It is an aerosol and is given to your child through an aerosol machine (nebulizer) or metered-dose inhaler (MDI).

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Special instructions for ipratropium bromide

  • Never give this medicine more than every 6 hours unless your child has a special prescription from his / her doctor. Using too much of this medicine can lead to serious side effects.
  • Shake inhaler well before use.
  • Read and follow all instructions provided with the inhaler. Using this medicine the correct way is very important. Ask your child's doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about using the inhaler or nebulizer machine.
  • Your child's doctor may want to have your child use a spacer with the inhaler. Using a spacer with an inhaler will help get the medicine into the lungs and work better.
  • Patients with soy or peanut allergies should not use the metered-dose inhaler.
  • Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are using any other medicine, including over-the-counter (OTC) medicine.
  • Do not leave this medicine inside a car where it could be exposed to heat or cold.
  • Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle / package.
  • If too much medication is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.
  • Keep this medication out of the reach of children.

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If a dose is missed

For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and / or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
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Common side effects of ipratropium bromide

Call your child's doctor if the following effects continue or are bothersome:
  • Dry mouth or throat
  • Coughing
  • Nervousness

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Warning signs

Call your child's doctor immediately if your child:
  • Needs this medicine more often than prescribed
  • Has any serious side effects

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Contact us

For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician. Back to top
Patient Education Program V 5125 12/98
Revised 9/05, 9/07