Patient's leaflet

Atrovent® Forte Inhaler

To obtain the best results from your Atrovent Forte Inhaler, please read this leaflet carefully and follow the simple instructions given overleaf.

If you are unclear about how to use your inhaler, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain.

Follow the instructions for use given by your doctor. Treatment in children should be supervised by an adult.

The standard dose range for adults is one to two puffs three or four times a day, but your doctor may wish to alter this to suit your individual needs.

Consult your doctor immediately if:

  1. your inhaler is less effective than usual

    2. or

  2. you feel the need to use your inhaler more than your doctor has recommended.

The 10ml vial contains 8mg ipratropium bromide in 200 metered doses. Each metered dose contains 40 micrograms of ipratropium bromide.

Atrovent®

Forte

 

Testing your Inhaler:

To make sure that your metered aerosol is working, test fire it into the air before using it for the first time and whenever it has not been used for a week or more.

Warning:

The container is pressurised; keep it away from heat including the sun. Do not puncture or incinerate it even when it is apparently empty.

Cleaning:

It is important to clean your inhaler regularly, otherwise it may not work properly.
  1. Remove the canister and dust cap, wash and clean the grey mouthpiece in warm soapy water, rinse in warm water, dry.
  2. The two small holes in the valve stem sometimes become blocked during use. They can easily be cleared with a pin.

Precautions regarding the use of Atrovent Forte Inhaler:

Atrovent should not be used by people who are hypersensitive or "allergic" to atropine.

People with glaucoma or an enlarged prostate gland should follow their doctor's instructions very closely and not take more than the prescribed dose.

When using your Atrovent Forte Inhaler take care not to let any of the spray into your eyes.

Do not use Atrovent Forte during pregnancy unless your doctor tells you to do so.

If you have any queries about any of the above or would like to discuss your treatment, please consult your doctor.

Boehringer Ingelheim Ltd.

Ellesfield Avenue, Bracknell,

Berkshire, RG12 8YS.

Correct use of your inhaler

Atrovent®

Forte

Remove the dustcap from the mouthpiece and shake the inhaler vigorously.

Holding the inhaler as shown, breathe out gently (but not fully) and then immediately...

Place the mouthpiece in the mouth and close your lips around it. After starting to breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth, press the inhaler firmly, as shown, to release the Atrovent Forte and continue to breathe in.

Hold your breath for 10 seconds, or as long as is comfortable, before breathing out slowly.