Indications
- Spiriva (tiotropium) is a prescription medication used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- It helps to improve breathing by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.
- Spiriva is usually taken once daily, at the same time each day.
- The usual dose is two inhalations from the Spiriva HandiHaler device.
- It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist on how to use the HandiHaler device correctly.
- Do not swallow Spiriva capsules. They are for inhalation only.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not take more than the prescribed dose of Spiriva without consulting your doctor.
- Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Spiriva.
Dosage and administration
Dosage:
- The usual dosage of Spiriva (tiotropium) is one capsule (18 micrograms) taken once daily.
- Each capsule is for oral inhalation only and should not be swallowed.
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.
Administration:
- Spiriva capsules are designed for use with the HandiHaler device.
- To administer Spiriva, follow these steps:
- Open the HandiHaler device by lifting the mouthpiece cover.
- Remove one capsule from the blister packaging.
- Place the capsule into the chamber of the HandiHaler.
- Close the mouthpiece cover until it clicks into place.
- Press the green piercing button on the side of the HandiHaler once to puncture the capsule.
- Exhale fully and place the mouthpiece in your mouth.
- Inhale deeply and steadily through the mouthpiece.
- Hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly.
- Open the HandiHaler to check if the capsule is empty. If not, repeat steps 6-8 until all medication is inhaled.
- Rinse your mouth with water after each use to help prevent dry mouth or throat irritation.
- Use Spiriva exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- If you have any questions about how to use the HandiHaler device or how to take Spiriva, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
Side effects
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Sinus infection (sinusitis)
- Constipation
- Upset stomach
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty urinating
- Back pain
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Heartburn
- Chest pain
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
- Voice changes
- Taste changes.
Precautions
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, or enlarged prostate, as Spiriva may worsen these conditions.
- Let your healthcare provider know about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
- If you experience any difficulty breathing, wheezing, or worsening of COPD symptoms after using Spiriva, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to medications or any other substances before starting Spiriva.
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose of Spiriva, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
- Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how Spiriva affects you, as it may cause dizziness or blurred vision.
- Keep Spiriva capsules out of reach of children and pets, as ingestion may be harmful.
- Store Spiriva capsules in a dry place at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
- Do not use Spiriva to treat sudden breathing problems (acute bronchospasm). Instead, use a rescue inhaler as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- If you become pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using Spiriva, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
- Do not stop taking Spiriva without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you feel better, as this may lead to worsening of COPD symptoms.