Description

Atrovent HFA – Uses, Benefits, Warnings and Information You Should Know

Atrovent HFA is the brand name of a prescription inhaler containing the medicine ipratropium bromide. It is often prescribed by doctors to help control breathing problems in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The medicine is a bronchodilator which is an anti-cholinergetic. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways walls. This helps the airways to open up and makes it easier to breathe.

What Is Atrovent HFA?

Atrovent HFA is a metered-dose inhaler. Each actuation provides a metered dose of ipratropium bromide directly into the lungs. Since the medicine works in the airways it can help reduce symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.

But patients should use the inhaler only as directed by their doctor. Taking an inhaler correctly helps the medicine reach the lungs properly.

What Is Atrovent HFA?

Atrovent HFA blocks certain signals that can cause the muscles around the airways to tighten. This way the airways can remain more open. Hence, air can move more freely into and out of the lungs.

Ipratropium may not work right away for every sudden breathing problem (like some fast-acting rescue medications do). It is therefore important that patients follow their prescribed treatment and have any recommended rescue medication to hand.

Application

Atrovent HFA may be prescribed by doctors for the ongoing management of airflow obstruction in COPD. It can help to control respiratory symptoms and help you breathe better when doing your daily activities.

However, the exact course of action depends on the patient’s health, other medicines and overall health. This inhaler should be decided by a healthcare professional.

How to Use Atrovent HFA

Patients should read the instructions for the product carefully before using the inhaler. Shake the inhaler as directed, hold it correctly and breathe in the medication using the proper technique. Also, patients should clean the inhaler and follow the dosing schedule prescribed.

Do not take more than the dose your health care professional prescribes. If you have difficulty using the inhaler properly, see your doctor or chemist for a demonstration.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

All medicines can cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Common side effects include dry mouth, headache, throat irritation, cough or bad taste.

You may have blurred vision, pain in the eyes, difficulty urinating or a fast heartbeat. Serious reactions are rare. If you develop severe difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or other signs of a serious allergic reaction, get medical help right away.

Safety Precautions Important

Tell your health care professional your medical history before using Atrovent HFA. Discuss specifically glaucoma, prostate or urinary problems, allergies and any other medicines you take.

Do not get the inhaled medicine in your eyes. Follow storage and handling instructions on product packaging.

Conclusion

Atrovent HFA can be an important part of treating breathing problems caused by COPD. However, it should be properly used by the patients and as per the advice of the medical professional. Most important, do not alter your dose or treatment schedule without consulting your healthcare provider.

This information is for educational purposes only, and is not a replacement for advice from your healthcare professional.