Atrovent is used in the treatment of asthma, although it's also recommended for people with chronic bronchitis. This medication is intended to prevent asthma symptoms and should therefore be used on a daily basis. It contains the active ingredient ipratropium bromide, which works as an antimuscarinic bronchodilator. This essentially means that it helps widen airways and prevents constriction, which is often the result of an asthma attack.
Unlike other preventer inhalers, Atrovent doesn't contain steroids but instead contains ipratropium, which affects receptors in the lungs known as muscarinic receptors. These receptors can react to a chemical stimulant acetychloine and causes constriction in airways which results in difficulty breathing. Atrovent prevents this reaction from happening thus preventing narrowing of airways in patients with asthma.
Most patients can use it safely but it's not recommended if you are allergic to the active ingredient or treatments with similar properties. It is also strictly not advisable to use this medication if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
Patients should ensure that they tell their doctor if they have issues passing urine, prostate problems, cystic fibrosis or glaucoma as they may have an influence on how you should use this medication.
The general recommendation for this inhaler is one or two puffs three to four times a day, although patients with more severe asthma may have to use doses that are higher. It's important that you use this treatment only as your doctor prescribed it and speak to them if you feel that you require a dose that is higher or lower.
Atrovent is an aerosol inhaler, which means that it comes with a canister and a mouthpiece. It can also be used with a spacer if you find it difficult using a puffer inhaler. You take the medication by pressing down on the canister as you inhale.
When using a new inhaler for the first time you should squeeze two puffs away from your mouth before you inhale. You should also wash your inhaler once a week to ensure that you are using it hygienically and no blockages occur.
This inhaler isn't likely to cause side effects and if they do occur they are usually mild. The most commonly reported effects are headaches, diarrhoea, a dry mouth, upset stomach or throat irritation.
Should these side effects become persistent or you start to experience anything more serious, you should seek medical help straight away.
We understand that it's not always convenient to get a repeat prescription from your doctor, which is why we offer patients the facility to get a repeat prescription and have their treatment delivered directly to their door. Simply complete the online consultation form which will then be checked by one of our partner doctors, who will pass a prescription to our pharmacy if they feel that it is in your best interest to use this medication. All orders are dispatched for free next day delivery. We provide a variety of medication for Asthma. If you need an alternative medication see the other Asthma treatments for alternatives.
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