Spiriva is made jointly by Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals and Pfizer, Inc.
Spiriva belongs to a group of medications known as anticholinergics or antimuscarinics. By binding to specific receptors, called muscarinic receptors, in the airway, Spiriva helps to relax the smooth muscle. With just one dose a day, the drug helps to prevent bronchospasms, which helps to keep the airways open.
Spiriva was studied in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). People taking the drug showed improved lung function, compared to those not taking it. In addition, these studies showed that the effects of each dose lasted for a full day, and people who took Spiriva were less likely to need "rescue" inhalers (such as
albuterol).
General considerations for when and how to take Spiriva include the following:
- The medication is inhaled into the lungs once a day. It does not matter what time of day you take Spiriva, as long as you take it at the same time each day.
- Spiriva comes in capsule form, although these capsules are never to be swallowed. They are used in the Spiriva HandiHaler®. This device punctures the capsule, and then the powder is inhaled using your own breath.
- It is important that you learn exactly how to use your inhaler. Make sure your healthcare provider shows you the steps needed to use it.
- For Spiriva to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
There is only one recommended dose of Spiriva, regardless of your age, weight, or other medical problems. As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Spiriva. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include but are not limited to:
(Click Spiriva Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Spiriva?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this drug if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Spiriva may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Confusion
- Shakiness
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Constipation
- Dry mouth or eyes
- Difficulty urinating.
If you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Spiriva Be Stored?
Store Spiriva at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep each capsule in its original foil blister until just before you are ready to use it.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Spiriva as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Spiriva is available in one strength -- Spiriva HandiHaler 18 mcg capsules, available in kits containing 5, 30, or 90 capsules. Each kit comes with complete instructions, capsules, and an inhaler device.
Currently, there is no generic Spiriva licensed for sale
(see Generic Spiriva).
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