Frequently Asked Questions

Do you carry Spiriva?

Short Answer

Yes, search for Tiotropium Bromide.

Long Answer

Tiotropium Bromide (trade names Spiriva and Tiova) is used to treat Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) which includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both.

Tiotropium helps to prevent COPD symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. It works by relaxing and opening the air passages to the lungs, making it easier to breathe.

Tiotropium is not a fast-acting "rescue" medication. It's a long-acting maintenance bronchodilator used once daily to help control COPD symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe a separate medication to treat the sudden onset of severe symptoms.

Drug Format

Tiotropium comes in two formats:

Rotacaps: In this format it's a dry powder encased in a capsule. The capsule is placed in a specially-designed inhaler to administer the drug. The inhaler pierces the capsule to release the powder which is then inhaled into the lungs. Do not swallow these capsules.

Inhaler using rotacaps

Inhaler: This delivers the dosage in a mist which is inhaled into the lungs.

Mist inhaler

Precautions

Before taking Tiotropium, advise your doctor if you have had any of the following:

Glaucoma
Urinary problems
Kidney disease
Prostate problems

Tell your doctor if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or herbal products.

If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, tell your doctor.

Additional Information

Spiriva (Drugs.com): Drugs.com explains usage of the HandiHaler, things to avoid, and side effects.

Tiotropium Oral Inhalation (www.nlm.nih.gov): MedlinePlus describes how to use the medication, special precautions, storage and disposal, and what to do in case of an overdose.

Spiriva with HandiHaler Inhalation (WebMD.com): WebMD covers uses, side effects, precautions, interactions, and overdose information.

How to use SPIRIVA (Spiriva.com): This page from the manufacturer of Spiriva has a video and a downloadable PDF explaining how to use the Spiriva Handihaler.