Atrovent Nasal Spray

The active ingredient in Atrovent nasal spray is ipratropium bromide, an anticholinergic medication. It works by reducing the amount of mucus and secretions your nose produces.

It does not directly treat allergic reactions as it does not contain an antihistamine.

It does not relieve sneezing, nasal congestion, or post-nasal drip associated with allergies or the common cold.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Atrovent nasal spray. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Atrovent nasal spray:

-Before using the spray, blow your nose to clear it of mucus if you can.

-Remove the cap and safety clip from the device tip.

-Hold the device with your thumb on the bottom of the bottle and two fingers on either side of the tip, on the white shoulder area.

-Before using Atrovent nasal spray for the first time, prime the device by aiming the tip away from you and pressing your thumb against the bottle firmly 7 times. You should see a spray coming out of the device tip.

-When ready to use the device, close one nostril gently with your fingertip and place the tip of the device in the other nostril, aiming towards the back and outer side of your nose. As you sniff deeply, press your thumb firmly on the bottom of the device while holding the shoulder part of the device between your two fingers. Breathe out through your mouth.

-Repeat the previous step in the other nostril.

In the event of a missed dose, do not take an extra dose of ipratropium nasal spray. Take your next dose at the scheduled time.

The most common side effects of Atrovent nasal spray include:

-Headache

-Sore throat

-Nasal dryness

-Nasal irritation

-Nose bleeds

-Dry mouth

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Atrovent nasal spray. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

-Vision problems if you get Atrovent nasal spray in your eyes. Symptoms can include blurred vision, seeing halos, eye redness, or eye pain.

-Allergic reaction. Symptoms include skin rash, hives, trouble breathing, and swelling of your face, tongue, or throat.

-Worsening of certain conditions, including glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or trouble urinating.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Atrovent nasal spray. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Atrovent nasal spray, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

-Eye problems such as narrow-angle glaucoma

-An enlarged prostate or other prostate problems

-Cystic fibrosis

Atrovent nasal spray is contraindicated in people who are allergic to ipratropium bromide, similar medications (such as atropine), or any of the inactive ingredients of the formulation.

Some benefits may be felt after the first full day of treatment, although it may take several weeks for the maximal benefits to be felt.

Atrovent nasal spray is minimally absorbed into the rest of the body. However, if it is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

-Other ipratropium-containing medications or anticholinergic medications

-Steroid nasal sprays

-Other medications used to treat seasonal allergies, such as antihistamines or decongestants

Atrovent nasal spray is available in 0.03% or 0.06% ipratropium bromide-containing spray pump formulations.

Atrovent nasal spray should be stored at room temperature and out of reach of children.

Atrovent nasal spray is manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis Canada Inc.

Brand-name Atrovent nasal spray is also available in a generic ipratropium nasal spray formulation.

You can stop using the nasal spray upon resolution of your symptoms.

The safety of Atrovent nasal spray in pregnancy is not yet established. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

No studies have been conducted to evaluate if ipratropium passes into breast milk when using ipratropium nasal spray. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.