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Spiriva Side Effects
In clinical studies, common Spiriva side effects included upper respiratory infections, dry mouth, and sore throat. These side effects are typically minor -- if they even occur -- and are easily treated. However, if you develop serious side effects of Spiriva (such as a worsening of breathing problems, wheezing, chest pain, or severe constipation), contact your healthcare provider right away.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Spiriva® (tiotropium bromide); however, not everyone who takes the drug will have problems. 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.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Spiriva. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Spiriva side effects with you.)
Spiriva has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which a group of people taking the drug have side effects documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
In these studies, the most common side effects of Spiriva included:
- Upper respiratory infection (such as the common cold) -- in up to 41 percent of people
- Dry mouth -- up to 16 percent (see Spiriva and Dry Mouth)
- Sinus infection -- up to 11 percent
- Sore throat -- up to 9 percent
- Bladder infection (urinary tract infection or UTI) -- up to 7 percent.
Other common side effects (occurring in 1 to 6 percent of people) included:
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Constipation
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Vomiting
- Muscle pain
- Yeast infection
- Nosebleeds
- Stuffy or runny nose.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD