Spiriva (tiotropium bromide)

SPIRIVA (tiotropium bromide) – an anticholinergic inhaled product commonly used to treat bronchospasm in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

FDA approved uses: Spiriva is indicated for the long-term, once-daily, maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and for reducing COPD exacerbations.
Available dosage forms: Capsules for oral inhalation. 18 mcg tiotropium powder, for use with the HandiHaler device.
Usual dosage: For oral inhalation ONLY. Two inhalations of the powder contents of a single SPIRIVA capsule (18 mcg) once daily.

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to ipratropium or tiotropium.

Adverse reactions (side effects) of these medications: The most common side effects of Spiriva include upper respiratory tract infection, dry mouth, sinusitis, pharyngitis, non-specific chest pain, urinary tract infection, dyspepsia, and rhinitis. Other adverse reactions seen in clinical trials or post-marketing include: edema, constipation, vomiting, myalgia, moniliasis, epistaxis, rash, gastrointestinal reflux, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, cataracts and skeletal pain.

Common drug interactions: There is potential for an additive interaction with concomitantly used anticholinergic medications. Therefore, avoid coadministration of SPIRIVA HandiHaler with other anticholinergic-containing drugs as this may lead to an increase in anticholinergic adverse effects.

Special instructions for patients: Do not swallow SPIRIVA capsules. SPIRIVA capsules should only be used with the HandiHaler device and inhaled through your mouth (oral inhalation). SPIRIVA HandiHaler is not a rescue medicine and should not be used for treating sudden breathing problems. Your doctor may give you other medicine to use for sudden breathing problems. Before taking SPIRIVA HandiHaler, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you: Have kidney problems; Have glaucoma. SPIRIVA HandiHaler may make your glaucoma worse; Have an enlarged prostate, problems passing urine, or a blockage in your bladder. SPIRIVA HandiHaler may make these problems worse; Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Full prescribing information may be found at the manufacturer‘s official website Spiriva.com or at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s website at Spiriva Info at Drugs@FDA

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