Spiriva

The active ingredient in Spiriva HandiHaler is tiotropium bromide inhalation powder. Tiotropium bromide is an anticholinergic medication that is also known as a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA). It, therefore, attaches to specific proteins and blocks the muscles in your airways from tightening. Your muscles will then relax in your airways, make it easier for you to breathe, and increase lung function. Spiriva HandiHaler is part of the drug class known as anticholinergic drugs.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Spiriva HandiHaler. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Spiriva HandiHaler:

Spiriva HandiHaler comes in a powder-filled capsule. It will often be recommended to take two inhalations of the capsule once daily using the HandiHaler device. Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours.

Place the Spiriva capsule in the center chamber of the device. Press the piercing button on the side of the device, which will then open the dust cap and pierce the Spiriva capsule. You will then inhale through the mouthpiece as the tiotropium is dispersed into your airways to receive the full dose.

If you happen to miss a dose, take the missed dose immediately. Do this unless it is closer to the time of your next dose, in which case, skip this dose and take your next dose at the normal time.

The most common side effects of Spiriva HandiHaler seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Sinus infection
• Dry mouth
• Chest pain
• Sore throat
• Increased heart rate
• Constipation
• Indigestion
• Urinary tract infection

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Spiriva HandiHaler. These adverse reactions may require immediate medical attention or hospitalization. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Paradoxical bronchospasm, with symptoms such as:
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing
• Worsening of urinary retention
• Symptoms may include painful urination
• This could be due to an enlarged prostate
• Worsening of narrow-angle glaucoma
• Immediate allergic reaction

These are not all of the possible side effects of Spiriva HandiHaler. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Spiriva HandiHaler, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• An allergy or have had an allergic reaction to milk proteins
• Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, including hives or a rash.
• Narrow-angle glaucoma
• Spiriva HandiHaler could make symptoms worse, including blurred vision, eye pain, and seeing halos.
• Speak to your doctor immediately if you experience any of these worsening signs of Spiriva HandiHaler.
• An allergy or have had an allergic reaction to any ingredient in Spiriva HandiHaler, including tiotropium, atropine, and ipratropium.
• Spiriva HandiHaler is contraindicated if you are allergic to the above ingredients along with any other ingredients within it.
• A pregnancy, plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
• Spiriva HandiHaler is not normally recommended for pregnant women.
• Urinary problems

You should not take this medication if you have a hypersensitivity to ipratropium, tiotropium, or any ingredients in Spiriva.

Spiriva HandiHaler starts to work within 30 minutes of inhalation, with significant improvement in lung function typically noticeable after a few days of consistent use. As a maintenance treatment of bronchospasm, it works gradually to help control symptoms and prevent exacerbations over time. Full benefits may take several weeks, so it’s important to use it regularly as prescribed, even if you feel better.

When Spiriva HandiHaler is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Other anticholinergic medications

Spiriva HandiHaler comes with capsules that contain 18 mcg of tiotropium powder for use with the device.

Store the capsules at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), away from light and moisture. You can also store it between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) for short periods if needed. Use the medication as soon as you open the blister pack. Do not store capsules in the inhaler device.

It is manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Currently, there is a generic available for Spiriva HandiHaler in the United States.

To stop taking Spiriva HandiHaler, consult your healthcare provider first, as they can assess your condition and determine whether discontinuation is appropriate. Stopping the medication abruptly may worsen COPD symptoms or increase the risk of exacerbations. Your doctor can provide alternative treatment options or a plan to safely transition off the medication if necessary.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Spiriva HandiHaler should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Spiriva HandiHaler can be used while breastfeeding only if clearly necessary, as its effects on breastfed infants are not well studied.