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Apo-Ipravent inhalation solution

This product is manufactured by Apotex Inc. using the ingredient ipratropium bromide.

This product is taken via nebulizer.

Why is it prescribed?

Ipratropium is used to treat bronchospasm in pulmonary diseases (e.g. bronchitis, emphysema, asthma) and to relieve runny nose in chronic rhinitis and the common cold.

Apo-Ipravent Inhalation Solution is intended for inhalation via a nebulizer.
Your doctor, pharmacist or health care provider will instruct you on the proper care and use of the nebulizer. If you have been told to dilute the solution, do so immediately before you plan to use it. Be sure to follow the technique outlined by your doctor or pharmacist.
Pre-diluted solutions should be used within 24 hours from time of dilution when stored at room temperature and within 48 hours if refrigerated. Do not mix any other medications in your nebulizer unless you have been instructed to do so by your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Use a syringe to withdraw the correct amount of solution from the bottle and add it to the nebulizer cup. Do not use the same syringe more than once.
  • If you have been told to dilute the ipratropium inhalation solution in the nebulizer cup with the sodium chloride solution provided, use a new syringe to add the sodium chloride solution to the cup as directed by your doctor.
  • If your doctor told you to use another inhalation solution with the ipratropium inhalation solution, add that solution also to the nebulizer cup.

To use the nebulizer:

  • Gently shake the nebulizer cup to mix the solutions well.
  • Connect the nebulizer tube to the air or oxygen pump and begin the treatment. Adjust the mask, if you are using one, to prevent mist from getting into your eyes.
  • Use the method of breathing your doctor told you to use to take the treatment. One way is to breathe slowly and deeply through the mask or mouthpiece. Another way is to breathe in and out normally with the mouthpiece in your mouth, taking a deep breath every 1 or 2 minutes. Continue to breathe in the medicine as instructed until no more mist is formed in the nebulizer cup or until you hear a sputtering (spitting or popping) sound.
  • When you have finished, replace the caps on the solutions. Store the bottles of solution in the refrigerator until the next treatment.
  • Clean the nebulizer according to the manufacturer's directions.

 


Alternatives

Other products that have the same ingredient as Apo-Ipravent inhalation solution are •Atrovent® HFA •Combivent® Respimat® •Ipratropium/Salbutamol inhalation solution •Ipravent nasal spray •PMS-Ipratropium inhalation solution •PMS-Ipratropium nasal spray •Teva-Combo Sterinebs •Teva-Ipratropium Sterineb •

See other products used in the treatment of •allergic rhinitis •asthma •bronchitis •bronchospasm associated with COPD •chronic bronchitis (COPD) •COPD •emphysema (COPD) •hay fever •perennial rhinitis •rhinitis •runny nose •seasonal rhinitis •

The average adult single dose is 250 to 500 mcg of ipratropium. The recommended dose in children 5 to 12 years is 125 to 250 mcg of ipratropium. Treatment may be repeated every 4 to 6 hours as necessary.


Ipratropium is thought to work by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger involved in the spread of nerve impulses in the body. This "anticholinergic" effect prevents stimulation of certain receptors on bronchial smooth muscle and nasal mucosa. It is a bronchodilator which relieves wheezing and shortness of breath.


Along with its needed effects, ipratropium may cause some unwanted or undesirable effects. Often, ipratropium users who use their medication properly, never experience any unwanted effects. The severity and duration of these effects are dependant on many factors including duration of therapy, dose, route of administration and individual response. Possible unwanted effects include.

  • dry mouth or throat
  • bad taste
  • tremor

Less common:

  • shortness of breath
  • burning eyes
  • eye pain
  • palpitations (awareness of heart beat)
  • headache
  • difficulty urinating

Rare:

  • tachycardia (rapid heart rate)


Many of these unwanted effects, especially the most common ones, may disappear with continued use. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience increased wheezing or tightness in the chest, swelling of the tongue or lips, difficulty in swallowing, fast or irregular heartbeat, blurred vision or pain in the eyes, difficult or painful urination, or skin rash.

 


Accidently getting ipratropium mist in your eyes can temporarily blur vision, worsen glaucoma and cause eye pain. If this happens, immediately flush your eyes with cool tap water for several minutes.
Drug Interactions: Very little ipratropium is absorbed by the body, so it is unlikely that it would interact with any medications taken orally. However, there are always exceptions, so it is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about any other prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking.
Use is not recommended in the following situations:
 

  • allergy to ipratropium, atropine or any component of the preparation
  • allergy to soya, lecithin or related food products including soybeans and peanuts.

Caution recommended in the following situations:

  • glaucoma (narrow angle)
  • enlarged prostate
  • blockage of the urinary bladder (e.g. difficulty in urination)

Use in pregnancy: Human data suggests low risk.  Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that you may be pregnant.
Use while breastfeeding: Considered safe for use in breastfeeding.  Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using.