What Is Ipratropium Bromide Inhalation Solution Used For?

Ipratropium bromide inhalation solution is used for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, in adults and adolescents age 12 and older. The medication is a bronchodilator and works by relaxing certain muscles in the airway to allow more air to enter and exit the lungs. Off-label ipratropium bromide inhalation solution uses include treating asthma.

What Is Ipratropium Bromide Inhalation Solution Used For?

Ipratropium bromide inhalation solution (Atrovent® inhalation solution) is a prescription medication used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including both emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Ipratropium bromide inhalation solution belongs to a class of medications known as anticholinergics or antimuscarinics and is inhaled using a special device called a nebulizer.
 
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung disease. In COPD, the airways (the tubes that carry air into and out of the lungs) are partly obstructed, making it difficult to get air in and out. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two kinds of COPD. While smoking is the most common cause of COPD, there are other possible causes of COPD. Common COPD symptoms may include:
 
  • Shortness of breath, especially with exercise
  • Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe)
  • Sputum (mucus) production
  • Coughing
  • Chest tightness.
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Depending on the severity of your COPD, your healthcare provider may recommend a number of medications as part of your COPD treatment, including:
 
  • Bronchodilators
  • Steroids (such as inhaled steroids)
  • A yearly flu shot
  • A pneumococcal vaccine.
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Lifestyle changes are also recommended (see Living With COPD and COPD Rehabilitation). Ipratropium bromide inhalation solution is a bronchodilator, which means that it helps open up the airways. Ipratropium bromide can be used alone or in combination with other medications to treat COPD.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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