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Ipratropium

Bronchodilator

Brand names:

Atrovent, Atrovent HFA®

Often used for:

Asthma and bronchospasm

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What is ipratropium? 

Ipratropium is a bronchodilator. It is used to treat asthma and airway inflammation or swelling. It works by opening the airways in the lungs.

This medicine may be given in the clinic, hospital, or at home.

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May be given as a liquid spray into the nose

 
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May be given as a liquid to inhale by the mouth

 
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Possible side effects

  • Nose or throat irritation (dryness)
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Changes to taste 
  • Shortness of breath or wheezing
  • Chest tightness or heartburn

Call your care team right away if your child has symptoms of an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, itching, runny nose, fever, chills, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, dizziness, low blood pressure, pain in the chest, side, or back, or swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take ipratropium will have these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Report any symptoms or side effects to your health care provider or pharmacist. 

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your child’s health care provider or pharmacist.  

  • This medicine is not a rescue therapy and cannot treat intense shortness of breath flare-ups or bronchospasm episodes.
  • A spacer device used between the medicine and the mouthpiece may be provided to make it easier when giving this medicine by mouth.
  • This medicine may make your child dizzy or have blurred vision. Do not let your child do anything that could be dangerous until you see how this medicine affects them.
  • Certain medicines can interact with ipratropium. Tell your care provider and pharmacist about all medicines your child takes.  

Ipratropium at home

  • Inhaler: Insert the metal canister into the clear end of the mouthpiece. Remove the cap. Breath out deeply through the mouth. Hold the inhaler upright, between the thumb and first 2 fingers. Put the mouthpiece in your mouth, close your lips and eyes. Slowly breathe in through your mouth and spray the medicine into it. Hold your breath for 10 seconds then breathe out slowly. Follow all written instructions.
  • Nasal Spray: Insert the nozzle into one nostril. Close off the other nostril using a finger. Press on the bottle to deliver one spray. A “click” and dose counter will indicate that the dose was given. Do not blow the nose for at least 30 minutes. Follow all written instructions.
  • Avoid spraying medicine into the eyes.
  • In case of a missed dose, give the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time.
  • Store at room temperature. Keep away from fire and do not use near an open flame.

Learn more about ipratropium

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

Reviewed: June 2025