- Used to treat a runny nose when you have a cold
- Used to treat a runny nose when you have an allergy
Atrovent is the brand name for the generic drug Ipratropium manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim. It is a nasal spray that comes in a manual pump with metered doses and it is available in two strengths – 0.03% and 0.06%. The 0.03% variant is used to relieve a runny nose when it is an allergy. The 0.06% is used to relieve a runny nose that accompanies a common cold.
Indications
Atrovent is used to treat the runny nose that comes with an allergy or with the common cold. However, it is not used for congestion, sneezing or post-nasal drip.
Action
When a person suffers from an allergy or a cold, a substance called acetylcholine is released which is what stimulates the nasal glands, causing a runny nose. This drug stops the effect of acetylcholine. In controlled studies, Atrovent proved to be effective with the minimum number of side effects like nasal bleeding and dryness. For best results, you have to follow the instructions your doctor gives you absolutely. You should not increase the dosage or the frequency without asking him. It has to be sprayed into the air before you use it for the first time or after a long interval and then used nasally. If you gently blow your nose and then spray this in, your relief will be much better.
Side Effects
While most people who use this drug do not experience any side effects, there are a few who do experience side effects – some minor, some more severe. The side effects that are not so serious include a dry nose, nosebleeds, headache, bad taste in the mouth, nausea, itching, hoarse or dry throat and dizziness. The more serious side effects would be blurred vision, fast heartbeat, swelling of face, throat or tongue, difficulty in passing urine or difficulty breathing. Any side effect must be reported to the doctor at once.
Caution
When you see your doctor, you will need to give him a bit about your medical history before he will prescribe any medication for you. You will need to tell him about your allergies, what vitamins and supplements you take and what medication you are taking for any existing condition or ailment. Only then will he be able to prescribe this drug for your runny nose without fearing any reaction with anything you might be taking.
Contraindications
This drug is contraindicated when you are suffering from glaucoma, bladder problems or prostrate problems. If you are prescribed this drug, you will need to have special tests done or your dosages will have to be adjusted. It should not be used by pregnant women or nursing mothers without consulting the doctor. The medication could pass through the mother to the fetus or pass through the mother’s milk while the baby is nursing. The drug is also contraindicated for children who are under six years old.