SPIRIVA RESPIMAT (Tiotropium Bromide)

What is this medication?

Tiotropium, Spiriva
Bronchodilator, Long-Acting Anticholinergic Agent

Tiotropium/Spiriva is officially indicated for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the Spiriva Respimat device is also indicated for asthma in patients 6 years or older (may also be used for conditions not listed)

How does this medication work?

Tiotropium/Spiriva inhibits acetylcholine at muscarinic type 3 (M3) receptors in the smooth muscle of the bronchioles resulting in bronchodilation. 

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting Tiotropium/Spiriva make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have kidney disease, narrow angle glaucoma, prostate hyperplasia, are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take this medication?

Spiriva Handihaler- Inhale content of one capsule (18mcg) once daily, using handihaler device

Spiriva Respimat – Inhale 2 actuations (=5mcg) once daily

How to Take: 
Handihaler: Capsule should be placed in handihaler and then the mouthpiece and dustcover should be closed.  Press the button on the side to pierce a hole in the capsule, open the dust cover and inhale a long, slow, deep inhalation through mouthpiece and hold for a few seconds.  Repeat a second time to ensure all medication is released.

Respimat: The cartridge should be inserted then the devise should be primed by twisting it 180 degrees then pressing the button.  Repeat until an aerosol cloud is visible.  To take dosage load and press button and inhale the aerosol with a slow, deep breath and hold for a few seconds.

You Need to Avoid: Do not exceed recommended dosages as it may cause severe adverse reactions; do not get in eyes.  Do not breath out into handihaler device and keep it dry.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible.  However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose.  Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times.  Store at room temperature, 25° C (77° F), excursions permitted to 15°–30°C (59°–86°F).

The capsules should not be exposed to extreme temperature or moisture. Do not store capsules in the HandiHaler device.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Dry mouth, upper respiratory infection, pharyngitis, sinusitis.  It may rarely cause paradoxical bronchospasm which may be misinterpreted as lack of effect. If symptoms worsen after using, discontinue the medication.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only common ones.