Atrovent or Ipatropium Bromide

What is it - Atrovent, generic name Ipatropium Bromide is a liquid solution that is used to open airways. It works in a way that is different than albuterol and is often used with another bronchodilator such as albuterol.

How does it work - The smaller breathing tubes in the lungs are surrounded by smooth muscles. Atrovent antagonizes the action of acetylcholine a substance released by the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve by releasing acetylcholine controls the contractions of those smooth muscles surrounding the breathing tubes.

How long will it last - Between 5-7 hours. It has been studied in use only with a beta agonist.

Adverse Reactions - The side effects of atrovent include tremors, nausea, bronchospasm, headache, insomnia, tachycardia. It will increase blood pressure in a small number of people.

Source - PDR - Physician Desk Referrence 2005 pages 1808 and 1809 Printed by Thomson PDR

Last Updated 6/17/2006 10:21:04 PM