Medication Information Leaflet

What is this medication for?

Ipratropium is used to help relieve symptoms in asthma and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Asthma and COPD affect the lungs which makes it harder for the person to breathe as the disease gets worse. Ipratropium helps to keep the airways open, making it easier for one to breathe.

How should I take or use this medication?

• Use your Ipratropium metered dose inhaler or inhalation solution as directed by your doctor.
• Please refer to the Ipratropium inhaler’s patient information leaflet to learn how to use the inhaler.
• For the use of Ipratropium inhalation solution, please seek advice from your nurse or healthcare professional.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
• You have any of the following medication conditions:
  • Cystic fibrosis (a type of illness in which thick mucus builds up in the lungs and digestive system)
  • Glaucoma (a type of eye condition where the pressure in the eye is increased)
  • Myasthenia gravis (a type of illness linked to muscle weakness)
  • Prostate problems

What are some common side effects of this medication?

• Cough/Throat irritation
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Nausea

These symptoms may happen but should get better over time. Check with your doctor if any of these symptoms are serious or do not go away.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

How should I store this medication?

Cover the mouthpiece when the device is not being used.

Ipratropium inhalation solution comes in single-use vials. Use immediately after opening and discard any remaining unused solution.

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. For the Ipratropium inhaler, keep the cap on when not in use.

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.

Disclaimer

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last reviewed on October 2020