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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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Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use ipratropium nasal.
FDA pregnancy category B: This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use ipratropium nasal without telling your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known if ipratropium passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use ipratropium nasal without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Ipratropium nasal should not be used by a child younger than 6 years of age.
Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
When using the nasal spray for the first time, prime it by spraying 7 test sprays into the air, away from your face. Prime with 2 sprays if you have not used the medicine in 1 to 6 days. Prime with 7 sprays if you have not used it for a week or longer.
Store ipratropium nasal at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed when not in use. Do not allow the medicine to freeze.
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.
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