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Ipratropium Nasal Spray

Ipratropium bromide nasal spray relieves a runny nose caused by seasonal allergies or other causes, like a cold. It comes as a nasal spray that you use in your nose. Follow the directions on the label to take this medication safely as directed.

What is this medication?

IPRATROPIUM (i pra TROE pee um) treats a runny nose. It works by reducing the amount of mucus in your nose.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Atrovent

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Bladder problems, difficulty passing urine
  • Glaucoma
  • Prostate disease
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to ipratropium, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for use in the nose. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed.

This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask you pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

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What may interact with this medication?

  • Atropine
  • Certain antihistamines for allergy, cough, and cold
  • Certain medications for bladder problems, such as oxybutynin, tolterodine
  • Certain medications for depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions
  • Certain medications for stomach problems, such as dicyclomine, hyoscyamine
  • Certain medications for travel sickness, such as scopolamine
  • Certain medications for Parkinson disease, such as benztropine, trihexyphenidyl

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your care team if your symptoms do not improve. Do not use extra medication. This medication should start to work within a day or two of treatment.

Do not get this spray in your eyes. It can cause irritation, pain, or blurred vision. If you do get any in your eyes, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water and call your care team.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Sudden eye pain or change in vision such as blurry vision, seeing halos around lights, vision loss
  • Trouble passing urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Dryness or irritation inside the nose
  • Headache
  • Nosebleed

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Avoid excessive humidity. Do not freeze. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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