Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh).
Acute breathing problems: Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh) is not for use as a "reliever" medication. If you get a sudden attack of breathlessness, be sure to use your "reliever" medication for rapid relief of your symptoms. It is very important that you have your "reliever" medication available with you at all times. If you persistently use more of your "reliever" medication, contact your doctor.
Eye problems: Take care to ensure that ipratropium bromide aerosol does not reach the eye. There have been reports of eye complications (e.g., tearing, increased eye pressure, Glaucoma, and eye pain) when Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh) has been released into the eyes. Eye problems have occurred when the aerosol was used with the standard mouthpiece or with a spacing device. If you experience eye pain, blurred vision, or vision changes, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
Glaucoma: Ipratropium can make symptoms of glaucoma worse. If you have glaucoma, discuss with your doctor how Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh), and whether any special monitoring is needed. You will probably need to have regular eye examinations while you are using Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh).
Prostate or urinary problems: Ipratropium can make symptoms of prostate enlargement or urinary problems worse. If you have a urinary tract problem, discuss with your doctor how Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
If you experience difficulty passing urine or pain when urinating, contact your doctor.
Pregnancy: Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while using Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if ipratropium bromide passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are using Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Atrovent HFA (Ipratropium-inh) have not been established for children less than 18 years of age.
