ATROVENT (IPRATROPIUM)
From CRS EMS Guidelines
Class
Anticholinergic
Pharmacology and Actions
- Bronchodilation
- Dries respiratory tract secretions
Indications
- Bronchospasm related to asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to this drug, atropine, soy, or peanuts.
Precautions
- Should not be used as the primary agent for treatment of bronchospasm
- Use with caution in patients with coronary artery disease
- Pulse, blood pressure, and EKG must be monitored.
Administration
- Adult and Pediatrics (>2 years) dosage: place 500 mcg into an oxygen-powered nebulizer and run at 6-8 LPM. Deliver as much of the mist as possible by nebulizer over 5-15 minutes.
Side Effects and Special Notes
- Palpitations, dizziness, anxiety, tremors, headache, nervousness, and dry mouth
- Can cause paradoxical bronchospasm, if this occurs discontinue treatment.
