Atrovent

Question 1

Action

Answer 1

• Antagonizes the action of acetylcholine, preventing the interaction of acetylcholine with muscarinic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle causing bronchodilation.
• Dries respiratory tract secretions.

Question 2

Onset

Answer 2

Within 15-30 min

Question 3

Peak

Answer 3

1-2 hours

Question 4

Duration

Answer 4

4-5 hours

Question 5

Indications

Answer 5

Respiratory Distress (S-136, S-167)
-Suspected Non Cardiac

Allergic Reaction/ Anaphylaxis (S-122, S-162)
-acute allergic reactions or anaphylaxis

Question 6

Dosage/Route

Answer 6

ADULT:

2. 5ml (0.02%) via nebulizer
   - added to first dose of Albuterol

PEDS:
PDC via nebulizer
-added to first dose of Albuterol

Question 7

Contraindications

Answer 7

None

Question 8

Side Effects

Answer 8

• Nervous/ dizziness
• Headache
• Cough
• Paradoxical Bronchospasm
• Palpitations
• Blurred vision/ eye irritation (with direct contact of mist)

Question 9

Special Information:

Concentration: 0.5mg/2.5mg - 0.02% unit dose vial

Answer 9

1. Use with 4-6 lpm O2 for handheld mouthpiece
2. Use with 6-10 lpm O2 for aerosol mask, CPAP and ET tube routes of administration
3. Cholinergic effects are site specific in lungs - no systemic effects
4. If a patient has self-medicated with bronchodilator prior to paramedic intervention, Atrovent should still be given with first prehospital Albuterol treatment
5. Atrovent is NOT added to albuterol in respiratory burn patients and suspected hyperkalemia patients
6. Atrovent IS added to first dose of Albuterol in patients with respiratory distress of Non Cardiac origin and dyspnea from allergic reactions/ anaphylaxis

Question 10

Class

Answer 10

Bronchodilator/ Anticholinergic