Atrovent Nasal Spray Side Effects

Clinical studies have shown that the most common side effects of Atrovent nasal spray include upper respiratory tract infections, headaches, and nosebleeds. In most cases, these side effects are minor and can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. However, you should seek medical attention immediately if you develop serious Atrovent nasal spray side effects, such as an irregular heart rhythm, vision changes, or signs of an allergic reaction.

 

Understanding Atrovent Nasal Spray Side Effects

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Atrovent® nasal spray (ipratropium nasal spray). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Atrovent nasal spray. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Atrovent nasal spray side effects with you.)
 

Common Atrovent Nasal Spray Side Effects

Atrovent nasal spray has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common side effects of Atrovent nasal spray included:
 
  • Upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold) -- in up to 9.8 percent of people
  • Headaches -- up to 9.8 percent
  • Nosebleeds or blood-tinged nasal discharge -- up to 9 percent
  • A sore throat -- up to 8.1 percent
  • Nasal dryness -- up to 5.2 percent
  • Dry mouth or throat -- up to 4.1 percent
  • Taste changes -- up to 3.7 percent
  • Nausea -- up to 2.2 percent
  • Nasal irritation -- up to 2 percent
  • Nasal congestion -- up to 1.1 percent.
     
(Atrovent Nasal Spray Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;