Ipratropium Flashcards

Study Notes

Ipratropium Overview

Brand name: Atrovent
Class: Anticholinergic bronchodilator

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits acetylcholine interaction at bronchial smooth muscle receptors.
Leads to decreased cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels and bronchodilation.

Indications

Effective for persistent bronchospasm.
Used in the management of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) exacerbations.

Contraindications

Not suitable for individuals with hypersensitivity to ipratropium or related substances, including atropine and peanuts.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and fatigue.
Potentially serious effects: tachycardia, palpitations, MI (myocardial infarction).
Other effects include dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, cough, and worsening of COPD symptoms.

Drug Interactions

No significant drug interactions reported for ipratropium.

Presentation Form

Supplied as an aerosol at 18 µg/actuation.
Available as a nebulized inhalation solution, 0.02% concentration (500 µg/mL).

Dosage and Administration

Adult dosage: 250-500 µg via inhalation using a nebulizer, every 20 minutes, up to three times.
Pediatric dosage: Same as adults, adjusted as necessary.

Duration of Action

Onset of action: 1-3 minutes.
Peak effect occurs in 90-120 minutes.
Duration of bronchodilation lasts 4-6 hours.

Special Considerations

Pregnancy safety: classified as Category B (no evidence of risk in humans).
Administer beta-agonists first when combined with ipratropium, allowing a 5-minute interval.
Shake the inhaler well before use.
Use cautiously in patients with urinary retention.

Description

This quiz provides in-depth flashcards on Ipratropium, including its classification, mechanism of action, and indications. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals wanting to enhance their understanding of this anticholinergic bronchodilator.