Ipratropium
Class
Anticholinergic
Description
Ipratropium is an anticholinergic (parasympatholytic) bronchodilator that is
chemically related to atropine. It is used in the treatment of respiratory
emergencies. It causes bronchodilation and dries respiratory tract secretions.
Onset & Duration
Onset:15 min. after inhalation
Duration: 2 hr after inhalation
Indications
1. Bronchial asthma
2. Reversable bronchospasm associated with chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Contraindications
1. Prior hypersensitivity reaction to ipratropium, atropine or lecithins
Adverse Reactions
1. Restlessness
2. Apprehension
3. Headache
4. Dizziness
5. Nausea
6. Palpitations
Drug Interactions
1. None in prehospital setting
Special considerations
1. Pregnancy safety: Category B
2. Caution should be used when administering to elderly patients and those with
cardiovascular disease and hypertention
Note: Feel free to discuss this medication and your experiences in administering it in an emergency or hospital based setting on our message board