Description
What is Spiriva?
Spiriva (generic name: tiotropium bromide) is a respiratory prescription inhalation indicated as a long-term, maintenance treatment of bronchospasm linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD, which includes emphysema and bronchitis. Exacerbations of COPD can also be reduced with this treatment. This medication helps in controlling symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
This inhaler is classified as an anticholinergic.
How does Spiriva work?
This oral inhalation is a long-acting, muscarinic agent which exhibits its effects by inhibiting m3-receptors at the smooth muscle, which results in bronchodilation. When the airways open up, patients can breathe more easily, and other symptoms can be addressed.
How to use Spiriva?
You must read the patient information guide and use this inhaler exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Administer your dose once daily and inhale each capsule twice. You should follow a dosing schedule in order to avoid missing doses. Do not increase/decrease your dose or use this inhaler more often than prescribed.
Step by step Medication Guide:
- Push the green button of your inhalation device to open the dust cap.
- Pull the dust cap up from the base until the mouthpiece shows.
- Take out a blister or capsule. Place it in the middle chamber of the Spiriva Handihaler. Then, close the mouthpiece until it clicks.
- Hold the device with the mouthpiece pointing upward. Press the green piercing button once until flat. Avoid pressing the green stud more than once. Do not shake the device if the capsule has already been inserted.
- With your head in an upright position, exhale deeply through the mouth.
- Place the mouthpiece into your mouth with your lips sealed around the mouthpiece. Be sure your hand or fingers are not blocking the air vent.
- Inhale through your mouth for as long as you can. You will feel or hear the capsule rattle.
- Hold your breath until it is comfortable. Then, take the device out of your mouth,
- Breathe normally and repeat steps 5 to 8. Use the same capsule inside the device.
- Do not consume anything after rinsing your mouth with water.
- Once done, open the mouthpiece and throw the empty capsule accordingly without touching it. Turn the handihaler device upside down and tap it to remove excess powder.
Side effects of Spiriva
The common adverse effects of this inhaler are dry mouth, sore throat, sneezing, stuffy nose, vomiting, upset stomach, constipation, and muscle pain. Other severe side effects that you have to report are palpitations, eye pain or swelling, visual changes, and painful urination. Talk to a healthcare professional if any severe adverse reaction occurs.
Contraindications/Precautions
This prescription drug should not be administered if you have a known allergy to tiotropium, ipratropium, atropine, other belladonna-type drugs, milk proteins, or any other inactive ingredients this inhaler may contain. Signs of serious allergic reactions are swelling of the face and neck, swollen lymph nodes, skin rashes, itchiness, trouble breathing, and severe dizziness. Seek emergency medical attention if this occurs.
This inhaler is also contraindicated among people with a history of kidney disease, enlarged prostate, and glaucoma. Because of potential drug interactions, you must also talk about all supplements, herbal products, prescription medications, and nonprescription medications you are taking.
You must limit your consumption of alcoholic drinks, for it may worsen some common adverse effects, such as dizziness, headache, and blurred vision. It is also necessary to observe great caution when doing tasks that require alertness and clear vision, especially driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between Spiriva Respimat and Handihaler?
The Respimat variant comes in a soft mist inhaler, while the Handihaler is a dry powder preparation.
2. How much does Spiriva cost?
You may check the pricing of this product by clicking here.
3. How is Spiriva supplied?
This is available in Spiriva 18 mcg tiotropium powder.
4. Is Spiriva safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women?
Pregnant and breastfeeding moms should discuss their condition with their doctors. It is essential to consider all possible benefits and risks of a Spiriva inhaler because it is unknown whether this inhaler could cause harm to unborn and breastfed babies.