Is Atrovent a Steroid?

With so many medications on the market for breathing problems, it can be difficult to know which ones are steroids and which ones are not. Atrovent is commonly confused as being as steroid. The most common medications prescribed for people with breathing problems such as asthma of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) are steroids and/or bronchilator. Atrovent is a bronchilator.

Types

There are three different types of Atrovent that are prescribed for patients, the first being the Atrovent HFA inhaler. This is mainly prescribed for patients who suffer with COPD, for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The next one is called Atrovent inhalation solution. This is also mainly prescribed for COPD patients and it is used in a nebulizer. Lastly is the Atrovent nasal spray. This is most commonly prescribed for people that suffer with a chronic runny nose.

Side Effects

Possible side effects for the Atrovent inhaler and the nebulizer treatment are the same, as they are both inhaled Atrovent. While side effects are common, it is best to contact your doctor if the symptoms become persistent.
You may experience: dry mouth and/or nose, irritation of the nose, nausea, pain, headache, flu-like symptoms, sore throat, sinus infection, nervousness and possibly an upper respiratory tract infection.
Possible side effects for the Atrovent nasal spray may include a mild nosebleed, sore throat, nausea, a dry nose or an irritated nose.

Benefits

Atrovent is used by many to provide relief when they have trouble breathing. It is used widely to help those with symptoms that are common with COPD, asthma, chronic broncitis and emphysema. It helps to relax the muscles in the airways, so that it is easier to get air in and out of the lungs.

Considerations

It is important to talk with your doctor about possible drug interactions if you are taking such medications as Anticholinergic medications, as this can increase the amount of side effect you experience with Atrovent. You also will need to use caution when taking Atrovent and Acetylcholinesterase together, as both medications will not work as well as they should.

Warnings and Precautions

It is important to seek the advice of a medical professional right away if you suffer with any of the following symptoms or allergic reactions: tightness in your chest, trouble urinating, swelling in or around your mouth including the lips and tongue, trouble breathing, pain in the eyes, rash, blurred vision or if you see colored rings or halos around things in your vision.
Severe symptoms or allergic reactions with the nasal spray to watch for would be all of the above as well as recurring nosebleeds, extreme nasal dryness, sinus infections, a rapid heart rate or a hoarseness in your voice.