Health Library Anticholinergics for Cystic FibrosisFrom Healthwise

Ipratropium helps keep the tubes in the lungs (bronchial tubes) from narrowing.

Anticholinergics begin to work within 15 minutes. They work best after 1 to 2 hours, usually last 3 to 4 hours, and sometimes last up to 6 hours. Anticholinergic medications can be taken by using an inhaler or a nebulizer.

Anticholinergics are sometimes used along with bronchodilators to improve breathing when inflammation or lots of mucus in the lungs makes it hard to breathe.

Anticholinergics do not work for all people who have cystic fibrosis.

Side effects are rare with inhaled ipratropium but can include:

• A dry mouth.
• Increased wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe).

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

Anticholinergics have not been used for very long to treat people who have cystic fibrosis. More research is needed to know just how well they work.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: June 26, 2007
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Susanna McColley, MD - Pediatric Pulmonology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.