How It Works
Ipratropium helps keep the tubes in the lungs (bronchial tubes) from narrowing.
Anticholinergics begin to work within 15 minutes. They work best after 1 to 2 hours, usually last 3 to 4 hours, and sometimes last up to 6 hours. Anticholinergic medications can be taken by using an inhaler or a nebulizer.
Why It Is Used
Anticholinergics are sometimes used along with bronchodilators to improve breathing when inflammation or lots of mucus in the lungs makes it hard to breathe.
Side Effects
Side effects are rare with inhaled ipratropium but can include:
- A dry mouth.
- Increased wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe).
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Anticholinergics have not been used for very long to treat people who have cystic fibrosis. More research is needed to know just how well they work.
If you have the eye disease glaucoma, talk with an eye doctor before you start taking anticholinergics. People who have glaucoma may need to be watched more closely while they are taking these medicines.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)
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Credits
| Author | Debby Golonka, MPH |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Susanna McColley, MD - Pediatric Pulmonology |
| Last Updated | June 26, 2007 |
