What it is used for

Relieving breathlessness in COPD
Severe asthma attacks, given by nebuliser with salbutamol in hospital
A constantly runny nose (rhinitis), as a nasal spray

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Ipratropium is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Ipratropium blocks acetylcholine receptors on the muscles around the airways. This relaxes the muscles so the airways open up and breathing is easier, for about 6 hours.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Ipratropium can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

dry mouth
headache
cough
constipation
a dry nose or nosebleeds (nasal spray)

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

wheezing that gets worse straight after using it
eye pain, blurred vision or seeing halos, especially if the nebuliser mist gets in your eyes
being unable to pee

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Use a mouthpiece rather than a mask with a nebuliser if you have glaucoma.
It is not usually used at the same time as tiotropium or other long-acting antimuscarinic inhalers.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.