Ipratropium

Aliases: Atrovent  

Indications: Respiratory Distress (Bronchial asthma, reversible bronchospasm associated with chronic bronchitis and emphysema), Drowning, Organophosphate exposure.  

Contraindications: Known hypersensitivity 

Concentrations: 

Premix solution: 0.5 mg/Unit

Dosing

Adult:

Indication Dose Route Note 
-Respiratory distress
-Drowning
-Organophosphate
exposure
0.5 mgNebulizerAdminister with
Albuterol and
repeat as needed.

Pediatric:

Indication Dose Route Note 
-Respiratory distress
-Drowning
-Organophosphate
exposure
0.5 mgNebulizerAdminister with
Albuterol and
repeat as needed.
Use Handtevy or Approved Pediatric Reference Guide for Amount to Administer

Precautions: Use caution when administering this drug to elderly patients and those with cardiovascular disease or hypertension 

Adverse/Side Effects: Palpitations, anxiety, dizziness, headache, nervousness, tremor, hypertension, arrhythmias, chest pain, nausea, vomiting   

Class: Anticholinergic   

Mechanism of Action: Ipratropium is a parasympatholytic used in the treatment of respiratory emergencies. It causes bronchodilation and dries respiratory tract secretions. Ipratropium acts by blocking acetylcholine. 15% of dose reaches lower airway.

Onset of ActionPeak EffectDuration of Action 
<15 minutes 1 to 2 hours4 to 5 hours