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Brand Name: Spiriva

Generic Name: tiotropium

An anticholinergic bronchodilator - It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to ... more

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INFO

What is this medicine?

Spiriva (tee oh TRO pee um) is a bronchodilator. It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breathe. This medicine is used to treat COPD, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Never use this medicine for an acute attack.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

bladder problems or difficulty passing urine
glaucoma
kidney disease
prostate trouble
an unusual or allergic reaction to tiotropium, ipratropium, atropine, other medicines, lactose, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine should only be used in a special inhaler. Do NOT swallow the capsule. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not use the inhaler when it is wet. Do not use more often than directed. Do not stop using your medicine without your doctor's advice. Make sure that you are using your inhaler correctly. Ask you doctor or health care provider if you have any questions.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

atropine, hyoscyamine, ipratropium or related medicines called antimuscarinics or anticholinergics

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve. Do not use more medicine than directed. If your symptoms get worse while you are using this medicine, call your doctor right away.

Do not get the this medicine in your eyes. It can cause irritation, pain, or blurred vision.

Clean the inhaler as directed in the patient information sheet that comes with this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
changes in vision
chest pain
fast heartbeat
infection or flu-like symptoms
trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

constipation
cough
dry mouth
headache
muscle pain
sore throat
stomach upset

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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