CLASSIFICATION
Long-Acting Anticholinergic Agent
ACNE
No
WATER RETENTION
No
HBR
No
HEPATOTOXICITY
No
AROMATIZATION
No
MANUFACTURER
Boehringer
WAREHOUSE
International Warehouse 2
SUBSTANCE
Tiotropium bromide
What is Spiriva?
Spiriva (tiotropium) is a revolutionary bronchodilator specifically formulated to relax airway muscles, enhancing airflow to your lungs. This effective medication is primarily used to prevent bronchospasms, which are the constrictions of airways in adults suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including bronchitis and emphysema.
In addition to its COPD benefits, Spiriva Respimat is also prescribed to help avert asthma attacks in adults and children aged 6 years and older, making it a versatile choice for respiratory health.
Essential Information
Each Spiriva capsule is designed exclusively for use with the HandiHaler device and should never be ingested orally. Always use one capsule at a time for optimal results.
The Spiriva Respimat Inhalation Spray package includes one aluminum cartridge and a Respimat inhaler. The cartridge is specifically designed for the Respimat device?do not substitute it with other products. The Respimat inhaler, featuring a sleek cylindrical design with a gray body and a transparent base, is equipped with a dose indicator for your convenience.
Before starting Spiriva, consult your doctor if you have conditions like narrow-angle glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or bladder obstruction.
Spiriva is intended for the prevention of bronchospasm and is not a rescue medication; it is not suitable for treating an ongoing attack. For acute symptoms, a fast-acting inhaler should be used instead.
Precautions Before Taking Spiriva
Do not use Spiriva if you have a known allergy to tiotropium or ipratropium (found in Atrovent, Combivent, DuoNeb).
To ensure Spiriva is right for you, inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of:
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Kidney disease
- Allergy to milk
- Enlarged prostate or urinary issues
If you are pregnant, consult your doctor about the potential risks of tiotropium. While poorly controlled asthma during pregnancy can lead to complications like premature birth, the benefits of effectively managing asthma may outweigh the risks.
Discuss breastfeeding with your healthcare provider, as it may not be safe while using this medication.
Spiriva Respimat is not recommended for children under 6 years old.
How to Use Spiriva
Use Spiriva precisely as directed by your physician. The typical dosage is 2 inhalations by mouth once daily. Always adhere to your prescription label and do not adjust your dosage without consulting your doctor.
Remember, Spiriva is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for immediate relief during a COPD flare-up. If you find your medications are less effective, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Thoroughly read all patient information, medication guides, and instructions provided. For any questions, don?t hesitate to contact your doctor or pharmacist.
When children use Spiriva Respimat, ensure they are supervised by an adult.
Spiriva HandiHaler is sold with capsules and a specialized inhaler. Each time you use it, load one capsule into the device, close the mouthpiece, and press the button to pierce the capsule and release the medication. You will need 2 inhalations to complete the dosage from a single capsule.
Never take Spiriva capsules orally; they are exclusively for use with the HandiHaler device. Dispose of any unused capsules immediately after removing them from the blister pack to maintain their effectiveness.
The Respimat inhaler comes with a cartridge that fits into the provided inhaler. Turn the base of the Respimat until it clicks to release the medication into the chamber. Two puffs are required for a complete dose.
Be aware that the Respimat inhaler will lock after dispensing 30 doses (or 60 puffs), and an indicator will alert you when only 14 puffs (or about 7 days) remain.
Regular lung function tests are necessary to monitor the effectiveness of this medication for your condition.
To maximize the benefits of Spiriva, use it consistently and ensure you refill your prescription before running out.
Store both the capsules and the Respimat inhaler at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Avoid freezing them and do not store capsules in the HandiHaler device.