Atrovent® (ipatropium) is a quick-relief medication. Atrovent® opens the airway by blocking reflexes through nerves that control the smooth muscle around the airways. It is slower-acting than the short-acting beta-agonists and can take 15-20 minutes to show a significant effect. Atrovent® may be useful following an inhaled beta-agonist to achieve a longer-lasting effect, especially during an acute attack. Atrovent® is available in two inhaled forms: as a metered-dose inhaler, and in a form suitable for use with a nebulizer.
Albuterol and ipatropium can be combined in one medicine. Combivent® is a combination inhaled medicine. DuoNeb® is a combination solution for the nebulizer.
This information has been approved by Ronina Covar, MD and Ann Mullen, RN, MSN, CNS, AE-C (December, 2012).
