ipratropium

No, Atrovent isn't a steroid; it's an anticholinergic medication. Atrovent helps get rid of runny nose by drying up the glands in your nose to stop them from making more mucus. Steroid nasal sprays ease allergy symptoms by lowering the swelling in your nasal passages. In general, Atrovent works more quickly than steroid nasal sprays. Study show that Atrovent can start to work within 15 minutes, whereas you'll need to use steroid nasal sprays regularly for a couple of weeks before you notice any benefits. In addition, Atrovent is available by prescription only, but certain steroid nasal sprays can be found over the counter. Talk with your provider if you're not sure which medication might work best for you.

Ask your provider how long you should use Atrovent because the length of treatment can differ depending on which strength of Atrovent you're using and what condition you're taking it to treat. For example, if you're using ipratropium 0.03% nasal spray for seasonal allergy, you might be able to use this medication year-round if your provider says it's safe to do so. But if you're prescribed the ipratropium 0.06% nasal spray for the common cold, your provider might only recommend that you use this medication short-term for a few days.

To start using Atrovent, wash and dry your hands, then take off the cap and safety clip. Make sure to prime the nasal spray the first time you use it or if you haven't used it for more than a week. Close one of your nostrils while inserting the tip of the applicator into the other nostril. Point the tip towards the back and outer side of the nose. Tilt your head slightly forward and press down on the white shoulders of the pump to spray the medication into your nostril. Sniff deeply to get all the medication. After spraying the medication, take the applicator out of your nose and tilt your head backward for a couple seconds. This allows the medication to cover the back of your nose. Repeat these steps for the other nostril or for additional sprays in the same nostril as directed by your provider.

Atrovent is only FDA-approved for children ages 5 or 6 years and older (depending on the strength of the medication). For runny nose in children under 1 year old, consider using a suction bulb to gently suction out the mucus. Make sure to put petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, on the skin under the nose to protect the nostrils from being irritated. Consider talking to your child's provider if your child has other symptoms in addition to runny nose, such as fever, cough, and congestion.

Atrovent isn't available over the counter. You'd need a prescription from a provider to get this medication. If you've runny nose and you need medication right away, talk to your pharmacist about over-the-counter options that might work for you.

Yes, Atrovent expires. Always check the expiration date of your medication before using it. Expired Atrovent might not work well. If your medication has expired, discard it and obtain a new one from your provider.