Spiriva: Long-Term COPD Symptom Control with Tiotropium
| Product dosage: 18 mcg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per cap | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $3.00 | $90.05 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $2.40 | $180.10 $144.08 (20%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $2.18 | $360.19 $261.14 (28%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $2.12 | $540.29 $381.20 (29%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $1.74
Best per cap | $810.43 $470.25 (42%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
Spiriva (tiotropium bromide) is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) inhaler prescribed for the maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, helping to keep them open and making breathing easier. This medication is intended for once-daily use to improve lung function, reduce exacerbations, and enhance overall quality of life in appropriate patient populations, under professional medical guidance.
Features
- Active ingredient: Tiotropium bromide
- Delivery system: Breath-activated, dry powder inhaler (HandiHaler) or soft mist inhaler (Respimat)
- Dosage form: Capsules for inhalation (18 mcg) or inhalation spray (2.5 mcg per puff)
- Mechanism: Long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA)
- Frequency: Once-daily dosing
- Prescription status: Rx-only
Benefits
- Significantly improves lung function (FEV1) within 30 minutes, with effects lasting 24 hours
- Reduces the frequency of COPD exacerbations and associated hospitalizations
- Alleviates breathlessness, chronic cough, and wheezing for sustained symptom relief
- Enhances exercise tolerance and ability to perform daily activities
- Provides consistent, long-term control as part of a comprehensive COPD management plan
- May reduce the need for rescue inhalers, offering greater day-to-day stability
Common use
Spiriva is primarily indicated for the long-term, once-daily maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is used in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COPD, including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema, to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and decrease the frequency of exacerbations. It is not indicated for the initial relief of acute bronchospasm.
Dosage and direction
For Spiriva HandiHaler: Inhale the contents of one 18 mcg capsule once daily, using the HandiHaler device. Do not swallow the capsule.
For Spiriva Respimat: The typical dose is two puffs (5 mcg total) once daily.
Always follow the specific instructions provided with your device. Rinse your mouth after inhalation to help reduce the risk of oropharyngeal side effects. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
Precautions
- Not for use as a rescue medication for acute breathing problems; always have a short-acting bronchodilator available.
- Use with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, prostatic hyperplasia, or bladder neck obstruction.
- May cause paradoxical bronchospasm; if this occurs, discontinue use immediately and seek alternative therapy.
- Patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl ≤50 mL/min) should be monitored closely.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to tiotropium, atropine, or its derivatives (e.g., ipratropium). Spiriva is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to any component of the formulation.
Possible side effects
Common side effects may include:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Sinusitis
- Pharyngitis
- Non-specific chest pain
Less common but serious side effects can include:
- Worsening of narrow-angle glaucoma
- Urinary retention
- Immediate hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., angioedema, rash, bronchospasm)
- Paradoxical bronchospasm
Drug interaction
Spiriva may interact with other anticholinergic medications (e.g., ipratropium, aclidinium), potentially increasing the risk of side effects such as dry mouth, urinary retention, or constipation. Concomitant use with beta-adrenergic drugs may produce additive bronchodilator effects. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Spiriva, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Resume your regular dosing schedule.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to increased anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, visual disturbances, tachycardia, and urinary retention. Severe overdose could potentially result in psychotic symptoms or cardiac arrhythmias. There is no specific antidote; treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15–30°C or 59–86°F), in a dry place away from direct light and moisture. Keep capsules in the blister pack until immediately before use. For Spiriva Respimat, keep the cartridge in the inhaler; do not store separately. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not puncture or incinerate the container.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.
Reviews
Spiriva has been extensively studied in clinical trials and is widely regarded as a cornerstone maintenance therapy for COPD. Many patients report noticeable improvements in breathing capacity, reduced exacerbation frequency, and enhanced quality of life. However, individual responses can vary, and some users may experience side effects such as dry mouth. Always discuss your treatment experience and any concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure optimal management of your condition.