What is Spiriva handihaler?
Spiriva handihaler prevents bronchospasm in adults with COPD, including bronchitis or emphysema. Spiriva handihaler can also be used to prevent asthma attacks among adults and children older than 6 years. Spiriva handihaler can be used in other ways not mentioned in this medication guide.
Side effects of Spiriva handihaler
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: itching, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
Spiriva handihaler may cause serious side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if:
- Spiriva handihaler may cause wheezing or other breathing problems.
- Blurred vision, redness or pain in the eyes, and seeing halos around lights are all symptoms of blurred vision.
- Sores, white patches, or sores on the lips or tongue
- You may experience pain or burning after urinating.
- Little or no urinating.
Spiriva handihaler can cause the following side effects:
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Painful urination;
- Upset stomach;
- Chest pain, rapid heart rate
- Cold symptoms, including stuffy or runny nose, sinus pain, and a sore throat.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
The tiotropium cap is only for use in the handihaler. Do not take the capsule orally. Only use one capsule at a given time.
Before you take this drug
Spiriva handihaler should not be used if you have an allergy to tiotropium or ipratropium (Atrovent Combivent duoneb).
Do not hesitate to inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- Narrow-angle glaucoma;
- Kidney disease
- A milk allergy;
- Urination or prostate problems
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant. Tiotropium is not known to harm unborn babies. Uncontrolled asthma in pregnancy can cause complications such as premature birth or low birth weight. Treatment of asthma can be beneficial to both mother and baby.
Breast-feeding may not be possible while taking this medication. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks. Spiriva handihaler should not be used by children under 6 years of age.
How to take Spiriva handihaler?
Carefully read all instructions or guides included with your medication and follow all directions provided. Follow the directions on the label. Spiriva handihaler should not be used to treat bronchospasm. Only use inhalation medicines that act quickly. If your breathing problems worsen quickly or you feel that your medication is not working, seek medical attention.
Please read and heed all directions included with your medication. If there is anything unclear to you, consult your physician or pharmacist immediately for help. Spiriva handihaler is available in capsules for use with an inhaler (Spiriva handihaler). The capsule should not be taken by mouth. Spiriva handihaler Aerosol is a cartridge that is inserted in a special inhaler (Spiriva Respimat). The medicine will be released into the inhaler by turning the Respimat base until it clicks.
A child who uses Spiriva handihaler must be under the supervision of an adult. Your lung function should be regularly evaluated. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature. Do not store it in the freezer. Remove the tiotropium capsule from the blister pack only when you are ready for the handihaler to be used.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If it is close to time for you to take another dose, skip any missed one altogether and do not double up on any medication at the same time. Use no more than twice in 24 hours. Refill your prescription before you run out.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Constipation, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, or dry mouth are all symptoms of an overdose.
What should be avoided?
Avoid getting powder from the tiotropium cap in your eyes. Call your doctor if this happens. Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have experienced the effects of Spiriva handihaler. You may be unable to react properly.
Interaction with other drug
Inform your doctor if you are taking any additional medications, including:
- Medicine to treat depression or mood disorders;
- Cold or allergy medication (Benadryl and others);
- Medicine to treat Parkinson’s disease
- Medicine used to treat stomach issues, motion sickness or irritable bowel syndrome.
- Medicine to treat overactive urinary bladder
- Asthma medication bronchodilator.
This list is incomplete. Tiotropium may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This list does not include all drug interactions.
