Tiotropium, Spiriva
Description: Bronchodilator, Long-Acting Anticholinergic Agent
CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship
How Does It Work
Tiotropium/Spiriva inhibits acetylcholine at muscarinic type 3 (M3) receptors in the smooth muscle of the bronchioles resulting in bronchodilation.
Indications For Use
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)
Precautions
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.
Usual Dosing
Spiriva Handihaler- Inhale content of one capsule (18mcg) once daily, using handihaler device
Spiriva Respimat – Inhale 2 actuations (=5mcg) once daily
Pharmacist Tips On Using
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 the 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 device 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 the eyes. Do not breathe out into handihaler device and keep it dry.
Side Effects
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 use, discontinue the medication.
Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only common ones