Ipratropium
Also known as: Ipratropium bromide
Brand names: ATROVENT BERODUAL (in combination) BERODUALIN (in combination) COMBIVENT (in combination) DUOVENT (in combination) IPRAVENT IPROVENT OTRIVIN ADVANCE (in combination) OTRIVIN DUO (in combination)
Description
Ipratropium is a quaternary ammonium compound with anticholinergic (parasympatholytic) properties. Ipratropium appears to inhibit vagally mediated reflexes by antagonising the action of acetylcholine, the transmitter agent released from the vagus nerve. Anticholinergics prevent the increase in intracellular concentration of Ca++, which is caused by interaction of acetylcholine with the muscarinic receptor on bronchial smooth muscle. Ca++ release is mediated by the second messenger system consisting of IP3 (inositol triphosphate) and DAG (diacylglycerol).