Examples
| ipratropium bromide (nasal spray) |
Atrovent |
How It Works
Ipratropium bromide is a type of medicine called an
anticholinergic. Anticholinergics block the actions of a chemical called
acetylcholine, which is important in the
autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS controls
"automatic" functions of the body, such as heartbeat and blood pressure. By
blocking the actions of acetylcholine, anticholinergics can improve a runny
nose.
Why It Is Used
You can use ipratropium bromide to improve the runny nose symptom
of
allergic rhinitis.
How Well It Works
Ipratropium bromide begins improving a runny nose within 15
minutes. It has no effect on nasal congestion, sneezing, or postnasal
drip.
Side Effects
All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
- Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
- If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
Call your doctor if you have:
- Nasal dryness.
- Nosebleeds.
- Sore throat.
- Dizziness.
- Blurred vision.
- Difficulty urinating.
Common side effects of this medicine include:
- Dry
mouth or throat.
- Increased nasal congestion.
- Increased nasal congestion or runny nose.
- Nasal burning, itching, or irritation.
- Nausea.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference
is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Taking medicine
Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.
There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Taking Medicines as Prescribed.
Advice for women
If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant.
Checkups
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
Credits
|
By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Rohit K Katial, MD - Allergy and Immunology |
|
Last Revised
|
June 30, 2011 |