Atrovent Inhalation Solution Description

Atrovent Inhalation Solution is an anticholinergic bronchodilator that your doctor or respirologist may recommend for treating asthma or chronic obstructive bronchitis, as both of these conditions can make it difficult for you to breathe easily. This is due to a chemical found naturally in your body called acetylcholine that acts on muscarinic receptors found on muscles surrounding your airways, causing them to contract. This narrows your airways and you may feel tightness in your chest and start to wheeze while trying to breathe properly.

How This Bronchodilator Works

Once inhaled, Atrovent Inhalation Solution, or generic Ipratropium works directly in your lungs to block the muscarinic receptors so the action of acetylcholine is stopped, which causes the muscles to relax and your airways to dilate so you can inhale and exhale without pain or struggling. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Atrovent Inhalation Solution should not be relied upon for immediate relief or if a bronchospasm has already begun as it can take up to 15 minutes to start working but it will last for up 6-8 hours. Atrovent Inhalation Solution is taken more as a preventative measure to avoid breathing problems throughout your day and night when taken as directed. Your doctor can recommend a fast-acting rescue inhaler for sudden attacks.

Conditions Treated by Atrovent Inhalation Solution

There are theories about the causes of asthma, but some of the facts are that it does run in families, it is more common in those that have allergies, and pollution can make asthma symptoms worse. Triggers for an asthma attack can vary between people and include smoke, pet dander, dust mites, and even changes in weather can set off an episode. Antibodies in your blood that are alerted as an allergic response can result in airway inflammation which causes them to constrict and you experience trouble breathing.

Chronic obstructive bronchitis involves inflammation of your bronchial tubes, most likely caused by smoking or other irritants in the workplace that are inhaled daily. These irritants signal your immune response that there is something harmful in your body, so inflammation is caused as a defensive move by the chemicals your body depends on. The inflammation causes swelling and mucus so your airways become compromised. With the use of Atrovent Inhalation Solution, your airways are not as narrowed and you can take a breath more easily, but it is not a cure for either condition.

Before You Use Atrovent Inhalation Solution

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding as Atrovent Inhalation Solution may be harmful for your unborn or nursing baby. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies you have with your doctor and list all OTC and Rx drugs, including herbal or vitamin supplements so it can be determined if Atrovent Inhalation Solution is the right medication for you.

Atrovent Inhalation Solution Precautions

Ask your doctor which rescue inhaler is best for you while using Atrovent Inhalation Solution or if you need one. If you have to use Atrovent Inhalation Solution more often than suggested by your doctor, you should think about being re-evaluated as your risk of a possible overdose increases and can cause blurred vision, dry mouth, or a fast or irregular heart beat.

Possible Side Effects of Atrovent Inhalation Solution

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Acid reflux

Drugs Similar to Atrovent Inhalation Solution

• Spiriva
• Combivent
• Breo-Ellipta