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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease »
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is comprised primarily of three related conditions - chronic bronchitis, chronic asthma, and emphysema. In each condition there is chronic obstruction of the flow of air through the airways and out of the lungs, and the obstruction generally is permanent and may be progressive over time.
While asthma features obstruction to the flow of air out of the lungs, usually, the obstruction is reversible. Between "attacks" of asthma the flow of air through the airways typically is normal. These patients do not have COPD. However, if asthma is left untreated, the chronic inflammation associated with this disease can cause the airway obstruction to become fixed. That is, between attacks, the asthmatic patient may then have abnormal air flow. This process is referred to as lung remodeling. These asthma patients with a fixed component of airway obstruction are also considered to have COPD.
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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
IPRATROPIUM 0.03% SPRAY - NASAL
(IP-ra-TROE-pee-um)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Atrovent
USES: Ipratropium is used to treat a runny nose that occurs throughout the year. It works by reducing the amount of fluid/mucus released from inside your nose.
This medication does not relieve symptoms of stuffy nose, sneezing, or postnasal drip.
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using ipratropium and each time you get a refill. Learn how to use this spray properly. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Follow the instructions for priming the spray if you are using it for the first time or if you have not used it for more than 24 hours. When priming the spray, make sure to spray away from the face so that you do not get the medication into your eyes.
Gently blow your nose before using this drug. Spray this medication into the nose as directed by your doctor, usually 2 or 3 times a day in each nostril.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Avoid getting this medication into your eyes. It may cause eye pain/irritation, temporary blurred vision, and other vision changes. If this medication does get into your eyes, flush your eyes with water for a few minutes. Tell your doctor right away if any symptoms occur.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. This medication works best if used at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not increase your dose, use this medication more often, or stop using it without first consulting your doctor.
If the spray gets clogged, hold the nasal tip under warm running water for about a minute. Dry the nasal tip and prime the spray again. Do not use a sharp object to clear the spray.
You may start to feel better on the first day after using this medication, but it may take up to 2 weeks before you get the full benefit of this medication. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Improve treatments & prevent attacks.