Ipratropium Bromide

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Dec 05, 2023

Warnings

Ipratropium Bromide Risks, Warnings, and Complications

Ipratropium bromide may cause or worsen health problems in some people. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other treatments for your lung condition if you are at an increased risk of adverse effects from this medication. Some of the risks of taking ipratropium bromide include:

SERIOUS ALLERGIC REACTIONS: In a small number of people, ipratropium bromide can cause severe adverse reactions, including life-threatening skin rashes, itching, swelling, and anaphylaxis (throat closing). Stop taking ipratropium and seek emergency medical attention if you develop signs of severe adverse reactions.
PARADOXICAL BRONCHOSPASM: Ipratropium bromide usually relaxes and widens the airways, but this medicine can sometimes paradoxically cause bronchospasm (narrowing of the airways), leading to wheezing, cough, difficulty breathing, and chest discomfort. Get medical attention immediately if you develop these symptoms after using ipratropium bromide.
EYE PROBLEMS: Rarely, ipratropium bromide can cause an elevation in the pressure inside the eyes. This is especially concerning in people with an eye condition called glaucoma, which is associated with elevated intraocular pressure. Before starting ipratropium bromide, tell your doctor if you have glaucoma or other eye problems. Avoid getting ipratropium bromide into your eyes. Seek immediate medical care if you develop eye pain, redness, discomfort, blurry vision, or vision changes.
URINARY RETENTION: Ipratropium bromide is an anticholinergic drug and can cause urinary retention. It should be used with caution in people with an enlarged prostate. Tell your doctor if you develop urinary symptoms while on this medication.

Precautions Before Starting Ipratropium Bromide

Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to ipratropium bromide, atropine, any of the active or inactive substances in ipratropium bromide formulations, or any other drugs. Your pharmacy can give you a list of ingredients.

Give your doctor and pharmacist a list of all the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies. This can help avoid possible interactions between ipratropium and your other medications.

Ipratropium bromide may not be right for people with certain medical conditions. Tell your doctor if you have glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy (enlarged prostate gland), or urinary problems.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, could be pregnant, plan to get pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

Precautions During Use of Ipratropium Bromide

Keep all your healthcare appointments during ipratropium therapy.

If you are taking other inhaled medications, you will need to take them away from your ipratropium. Your healthcare provider will explain how to time your inhalers.

Call your doctor if you become pregnant while on ipratropium bromide.

Tell all your providers you are on ipratropium bromide, especially before any surgery, including dental procedures.

Ipratropium Bromide Drug Interactions

Certain other drugs can affect how ipratropium bromide works. Possible drug interactions with other medicines can increase the risk of severe adverse reactions. The following medications can have interactions with ipratropium bromide:

Antihistamines
Medications prescribed for motion sickness, stomach ulcers, irritable bowel disease, Parkinson's disease, and urinary problems

Give your doctor or pharmacist a complete list of your medications, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal remedies. Also, tell your healthcare professional if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use recreational drugs because some of these substances can cause serious health complications when used with prescription medications.

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