Spiriva
Generic Name:
Tiotropium
Brand Names:
Spiriva
Spiriva Description:
Spiriva is a bronchodialator inhaled through the mouth to open up bronchial tubes in the lungs. Spiriva is used to treat the symptoms associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Patients receive relief from symptoms associated with emphysema (damage to the lung’s air sacs) and bronchitis (swelling of the lung’s air passages).
Spiriva Side Effects:
The most common side effects of Spiriva include:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Urination problems
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Sneezing
For more information, see our Spiriva side effects page.
Spiriva Uses:
Spiriva is an inhalable medicine that prevents wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing in patients with COPD affected by bronchitis or emphysema. Spiriva relaxes and opens air passages in the lungs that are tight and filled with mucus to allow patients to breathe easier.
Spiriva is used as a maintenance medicine, not as a rescue inhaler. Patients may still need their rescue inhaler, but may need it less over time as use with Spiriva continues. Patients may feel the effects of Spiriva following the first use, but will not feel the full benefit for several weeks.
Spiriva Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before beginning treatment with Spiriva.
Before taking Spiriva, patients should consult their doctor if they are taking any of the following medications:
- Amiodarone
- Antihistamines
- Atropine
- Cisapride
- Disopyramide
- Dofetilide
- Erythromycin
- Eye drops
- Ipratropium
- Sotalol
- Sparfloxacin
- Thioridazine
This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Patients should inform their doctor of all medicines they are taking to avoid any complications while taking Spiriva.
Patients with a history or current diagnosis of any of following conditions should consult their doctor before treatment with Spiriva:
- Glaucoma
- Urinary problems
- Irregular heart beat
- Prostate problems
- Kidney disease
Spiriva Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Patients should take Spiriva exactly as prescribed by their doctor around the same time daily.
Spiriva should only be used with its designated inhaler. Doses come in capsules that should be placed within the inhaler directly before use. Do not swallow a Spiriva capsule. Capsules exposed to air without immediate use should be discarded. Exposed capsules will not be as effective as intended.
Patients should take two puffs from the Spiriva inhaler once a day. Capsules are 18 mcg.
Missing a Dose of Spiriva
If a dose of Spiriva is missed, take the dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and wait to return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double dose.
Spiriva Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose of Spiriva occurs. Patients who experience an overdose may demonstrate the following overdose symptoms:
- Dry mouth
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Uncontrollable hand shaking
- Blurred vision
- Red eyes
- Increased heart rate
- Urinating problems
- Changes in thinking
Spiriva FDA Approval:
January 30, 2004
Spiriva Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
A recall was issued in July 2008 for Spiriva HandiHaler because the “product may not meet specifications for aerodynamic particle size distribution throughout shelf life”. (Recall # D-224-2008)
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