ipratropium bromide monohydrate at a glance
Medicine class
Short-acting antimuscarinic bronchodilator
Licensed role
Regular treatment of reversible bronchospasm associated with chronic asthma or COPD
Administration
Inhaled through the mouth; correct technique is important
Eye protection
Keep the spray away from the eyes, particularly when glaucoma is a concern
What is ipratropium bromide monohydrate used for?
The selected inhaler is licensed for adults with:
Reversible bronchospasm associated with COPD
Reversible bronchospasm associated with chronic asthma
How does ipratropium bromide monohydrate work?
It blocks the effects of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle, reducing airway tightening. Its effect is mainly local within the lungs.
ipratropium bromide monohydrate preparations and strengths
Inhaled preparation
Route: Inhaled
Strengths: 20 micrograms/actuation
How to take ipratropium bromide monohydrate
Use the inhaler as instructed by the prescriber and product leaflet. Food does not affect administration because it is inhaled.
Sit or stand upright and ensure the mouthpiece is clean and unobstructed.
Breathe out comfortably, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, then breathe in slowly and deeply while pressing the canister.
Hold your breath for as long as comfortable, then breathe out slowly away from the inhaler.
Keep the spray away from your eyes and replace the mouthpiece cover after use.
Prime and clean the inhaler as described in the leaflet. Never put the metal canister in water.
An AeroChamber Plus spacer may help adults who have difficulty coordinating inhalation with pressing the canister.
ipratropium bromide monohydrate side effects
Common or expected effects
- Headache or dizziness
- Cough or throat irritation
- Dry mouth
- Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort
- Changes in gastrointestinal movement
Get urgent medical advice
- Sudden worsening of wheeze or breathlessness immediately after inhalation
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, severe rash or breathing difficulty
- Eye pain, red eye, blurred vision or coloured halos
- New difficulty passing urine or inability to urinate
- Fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat
ipratropium bromide monohydrate in pregnancy
Human safety data are limited. The selected product should be used only when the expected maternal benefit is considered to outweigh potential fetal risk. Discuss treatment with the prescriber and do not stop prescribed treatment without professional advice.
ipratropium bromide monohydrate while breastfeeding
It is unknown whether ipratropium passes into human milk, although important infant exposure is considered unlikely. Regular use should be reviewed with the prescriber, particularly for a premature or unwell infant.
ipratropium bromide monohydrate interactions
Tell the prescriber or pharmacist about other inhalers and respiratory medicines. These combinations may increase bronchodilation rather than prevent co-administration.
Beta-adrenergic bronchodilators, such as salbutamol
Bronchodilator effects may be additive.
Xanthines, such as theophylline or aminophylline
Bronchodilator effects may be additive.
Common questions about ipratropium bromide monohydrate
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What is it used for?
The selected UK inhaler is licensed for regular treatment of reversible airway narrowing associated with chronic asthma or COPD.
Is it a steroid?
No. It is an antimuscarinic bronchodilator that relaxes airway smooth muscle.
Does it work immediately?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.