Spiriva (Tiotropium Bromide)

Indications

Spiriva is a prescription medication indicated to help individuals who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma management symptoms. It contains active ingredient called tiotropium bromide. Tiotropium bromide belongs to a class of drugs known as anticholinergics. It works differently than other COPD medications, as it helps keep airways open and reduces the amount of mucus that can build up in the lungs.

Tiotropium bromide is a long-acting bronchodilator that must be used regularly to prevent wheezing and shortness of breath. Spiriva is used to prevent wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, a group of diseases that affect the lungs and airways) such as chronic bronchitis (swelling of the air passages that lead to the lungs) and emphysema (damage to air sacs in the lungs).

Uses and Dosage

Spiriva comes in the form of an inhaler, Rotacaps, to be inhaled by mouth as directed by your doctor. You should avoid getting the medication into your eyes, as it may cause eye pain or irritation, temporary blurred vision, and other vision changes. When using the inhaler, be sure to put your lips tightly around the mouthpiece to ensure proper delivery of the medication. As always, follow your doctor's instructions carefully when using Spiriva.

The typical dosage is 2 sprays once daily, and you should not inhale more than 2 sprays in 24 hours. It is also important to follow the instructions for test sprays in the air if you are using the inhaler for the first time or if you have not used it for more than 3 days or for more than 21 days.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Spiriva (Tiotropium bromide):

• Constipation
• Cough
• Difficulty passing urine.
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Nosebleed
• Painful white patches in mouth
• Runny nose
• Sinus infection
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Upper respiratory tract infection

Serious Side Effects of Spiriva (Tiotropium bromide):

• Blurred vision
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Eye pain
• Fast heart beat
• Headaches or other signs of a sinus infection
• Hives
• Hoarseness
• Itching
• Painful or difficult urination
• Red eyes
• Seeing halos around lights or seeing colored images
• Skin rash
• Sore throat, fever, chills, and other signs of infection
• Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs

Form and Strength

Spiriva (Tiotropium bromide) is available in the following forms and strength:

Spiriva: Rotacaps

• 18 mcg

Tiotropium bromide: Rotacaps

• 18 mcg

Caution

• Do not use Spiriva if you are allergic to tiotropium or any of the components of the product.
• Be cautious when using Spiriva if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, or prostate enlargement, as it may worsen the symptoms associated with these conditions.
• Use it with caution in patients with severe kidney problems.
• Spiriva may interact with other medications, so be sure to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking before starting treatment with Spiriva.
• Spiriva may cause side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, difficulty passing urine, or allergic reactions. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
• Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions carefully when using Spiriva, and do not exceed the recommended dosage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does Spiriva work?

Spiriva works by relaxing the smooth muscles around the airways, which helps to improve breathing in people with COPD and asthma.

What is tiotropium bromide?

Tiotropium bromide is the active ingredient in Spiriva. It is a type of medication known as an anticholinergic, which works by relaxing the muscles in the airways.

Can Spiriva be used for asthma?

Yes, Spiriva can be used to treat asthma in adults.

How is Spiriva usually taken?

Spiriva is generally taken through an inhaler, but the specific instructions for use may vary depending on the type of Spiriva prescribed. It is important to follow the dosage and administration instructions provided by a healthcare provider.

How often is Spiriva taken?

The recommended dose for Spiriva varies depending on the indication being treated, but it is usually taken once a day.

Resources

• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/psg/tiotropium%20bromide_inhalation%20powder_nda%20021395_rc10-17.pdf
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=820839ef-e53d-47e8-a3b9-d911ff92e6a9
• https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604018.html
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-89061-1655/tiotropium-bromide-inhalation/tiotropium-inhalation/details
• https://www.drugs.com/spiriva.html