What is Spiriva?
Spiriva is a long-term anticholinergic agent (LAMA) from Boehringer Ingelheim, which is used for the continuous therapy of COPD and heavy asthma. The active ingredient Tiotropium extends the bronchi and keeps these open for 24 hours.
The special Spiriva: It only needs to be inhaled once a day and offers uniform protection throughout the day and night. In asthma, it is used in addition to the existing therapy with inhalative corticoid.
Spiriva is available as Respimat® (Soft-Mist-Inhalator) and as HandiHaler® (Powder Inhaler).
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Tiotropiumbromid
Tiotropium blocks Muslim receptors in the airways:
Active mechanism:
- Inhibits the muscarin receptors M1 and M3 in the bronchial muscle
- Blocks the action of acetylcholine
- The smooth muscle relaxes
- The airways remain open
Special features:
- Very long binding time on the receptor (24+ hours)
- Dissociated slowly from the M3 receptor
- Faster from M2 receptor (less side effects)
- No relevant systemic inhalation
Time:
- Entry into effect: within 30 minutes
- Maximum effect: 1-3 hours
- duration of action: 24 hours
Who is it suitable for?
Spiriva is suitable for:
- COPD continuous therapy (all grades)
- Heavy asthma as an add-on therapy
- If ICS + LABA do not control enough
Indications:
- Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD)
- Heavy asthma (level 4-5 of GINA lines)
- As an addition to ICS/LABA combination
Not suitable:
- As sole asthma therapy
- For the acute treatment of breathlessness
- Children under 6 years old
Available Dosages
Spiriva Respimat:
- 2.5 μg per stroke (2 strokes = 5 μg/day)
- COPD: 2 strokes once a day
- Asthma: 2 strokes once a day
Spiriva HandiHaler (Powder):
- 18 μg per capsule
- Inhale 1 capsule once a day
Dosing:
- Always at the same time
- Preferably morning
- Do not double the dose when forgetting
How to Take
Spiriva Respimat: 1. For initial use: insert cartridge, rotate base until it clicks Two. Open cap, turn base to the chest (half rotation) 3. Breathe deep (not in the inhaler) 4. Closing mouthpiece with lips Five. Breathe slowly and deeply while pressing the button 6. Keep breath 10 seconds 7. Inhale the second stroke
Spiriva HandiHaler: 1. Open dust protection cap Two. Folding mouthpiece up 3. Insert capsule into the chamber 4. Close mouthpiece, press side button (capsule is pierced) Five. Breathe deep, enclose mouthpiece 6. Strong and deep breathing 7. Keep breath 10 seconds 8. Repeat procedure to empty capsule completely
Important:
- Always at the same time (best morning)
- Do not use as an emergency medication
- rinse mouth after inhalation
Contraindications
**Spiriva must not be applied at:* *
- hypersensitivity to tiotropium or atropine derivatives
- Children under 6 years old
Preview at:
- Engangle glaucoma
- Prostate hyperplasia with urine retention
- Heavy kidney failure
- Heart rhythm disorders
pregnant: Only with clear indication. Limited data.
Style time: Unknown whether tiotropium passes into breast milk. Benefit Risk Balance.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Mouth dryness
- Headaches
- Pharyngitis
- Coughs
Occasionally:
- Squeeze
- Hidden vision
- Heart rhythm disorders
- Blocking
- Harnverhalt
Selten:
- Engangle glaucoma
- Allergic reactions
- Paradox bronchospasmus
** Mouth dryness is the most common side effect. Can be relieved by drinking and mouthwashing.
Interactions
Preview for combination with:
- Other anticholinergics (additive action)
- Drugs that cause dry mouth
- QT-extending medications
No relevant interaction:
- With Beta-2-Agonists (sense combination)
- With inhalative corticoids
- With most oral medicines
** When used together with LABA and ICS: The combination is with heavy asthma and COPD standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Spiriva right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.