Spiriva® | |
Brand Name: | Spiriva® |
Active Ingredient: | Tiotropium bromide |
Strength(s): | 18 mcg |
Dosage Form(s): | Capsule |
Company Name: | Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. |
Availability: | Prescription only |
*Dated Approved by FDA: | January 30, 2004 |
*Approval by FDA does not mean that the drug is available for consumers at this time. |
What
is Spiriva used for? Spiriva HandiHaler is
used for the treatment of breathing problems in patients with chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and
emphysema. Spiriva is a maintenance bronchodilator. It helps to keep
narrowed airways open. Spiriva
does not treat sudden episodes of breathing problems (bronchospasm). ·
Do
not use Spiriva to treat sudden episodes of breathing problems. ·
Serious allergic reactions such as itching, rash, swelling
of the lips, tongue, or throat (trouble swallowing) may occur after
taking Spiriva. Stop taking
Spiriva and get emergency help right away if you get any of these
symptoms. ·
Spiriva may cause breathing problems (paradoxical
bronchospasm). Stop taking
Spiriva and call your doctor right away if this happens. ·
Spiriva
capsules are used only with the HandiHaler device. Do not use the
Handihaler device to take other medicines.
·
Do
not swallow Spiriva capsules. The
powder in the capsules is inhaled using the Handihaler device. ·
Store
Spiriva capsules in the sealed blister strip until ready to use.
Only open the blister strip enough to remove one Spiriva capsule.
Spiriva capsules must be used right away when removed from the
blister strip or they may not work as well.
Throw away Spiriva capsules that are exposed to air and not used
right away. ·
Do not get Spiriva powder in your eyes.
It can affect your vision for awhile. Do not use Spiriva if you: ·
are allergic to atropine or any medicine that contains
atropine. ·
are allergic to any of the ingredients in Spiriva. What
should I tell my health care provider? Tell your health care provider if you: ·
have or had
glaucoma, prostate problems, or bladder blockages
·
are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are
breast-feeding ·
are allergic to Spiriva or to medicines that contain atropine Tell your health care provider about all the
medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription
medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Spiriva may interact with some other medicines used for COPD.
What are some possible side effects of Spiriva? (This list is
NOT a complete list of side effects reported with Spiriva.
Your health care provider can discuss with you a more complete
list of side effects.) Serious side effects
include (see
General Precautions with Spiriva):
·
serious
allergic reactions ·
breathing problems (paradoxical bronchospasm) ·
worsening of symptoms in people with narrow-angle glaucoma,
enlarged prostates, and bladder blockages Some common side effects with Spiriva include: ·
dry
mouth ·
constipation ·
increased
heart rate ·
blurred
vision ·
glaucoma ·
problems
with urination For more
detailed information about Spiriva, ask your health care provider or
pharmacist. |