What is Spiriva?

Spiriva and the generic alternative Tiotropium Bromide Inhaler, is a bronchodilator which relaxes the muscles within the airways therefore increasing air flow to your lungs. Spiriva prevents the airways narrowing within the lungs in adults who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis and emphysema. Spiriva is most effective when it is used regularly to prevent wheezing and shortness of breath. Spiriva is not a quick relief inhaler and does not work immediately to stop asthma attacks.

How to use Spiriva with HandiHaler

Spiriva comes with capsules and an inhaler known as a handihaler. Insert one capsule into your handihaler and press the green button on the side of the device. Exhale fully before using and then close your lips around the device mouthpiece. Inhale slowly and deeply through your mouth and then hold your breath while you remove the mouthpiece. Continue breathing normally and remove the used capsule and discard it.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Only use the capsules with the device. Do not take the capsules by mouth.
• Insert your capsule into your device. Press the green button on the side of the inhaler.
• Exhale fully before using. Close your lips around the mouthpiece of the handihaler and inhale slowly and deeply through your mouth. Hold your breath while you remove the mouthpiece from your mouth. Then continue to breathe normally.
• Remove the used rotacap from the handihaler device and discard it.
• You should not store any used or unused capsules inside your device.
• After use, rinse the mouthpiece with warm water.
• This asthma treatment is most effective when used regularly. This is not a quick relief inhaler.
• Keep the medication in the container it came in. Store it at room temperature and away from heat and moisture.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Which other inhalers you currently use.
• Your medical history especially of glaucoma, urine problems, irregular heart-beat, kidney or prostate diseases.
• If you use marijuana.
• If you are pregnant, planning on pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Also be aware that:

• You will receive a new inhaler device with each 30 day supply of medication.
• Spiriva should not be used by children younger than 6.
• Spiriva may make you dizzy or blur your vision. You should not drive, operate machinery or do anything else that requires alertness until you can do it safely.
• You should limit your alcohol intake while taking Spiriva.

Common Spiriva side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Dry mouth or sneezing.
• Painful white patches in the mouth.
• Nosebleeds or a runny nose.
• Constipation, vomiting, indigestion or stomach and muscle pain.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following tiotroprium side effects:

• Fast or irregular heart beat.
• Eye pain or vision changes.
• Hives, rashes or itching.
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Swelling of the face, throat, hands, feet or other body parts.
• Sore throat, hoarseness, fever, chills or other signs of infection.
• Painful or difficult urination.

Q: When should I take Spiriva?

A: Spiriva is most effective when taken regularly. It is typically taken once daily and lasts for 24 hours. It does not matter if it is taken in the morning or evening, but it should be taken at approximately the same time each day.

Q: Should I use Spiriva handihaler when I suffer wheezing or sudden shortness of breath?

A: No. If you are suffering from wheezing or shortness of breath, then you should use your quick-relief inhaler. Spiriva is not a rescue medication.

Q: What is the generic alternative to Spiriva with handihaler?

A: The generic alternative is called the tiotropium bromide inhaler and may offer you better savings. We stock both the brand and generic alternative in 18mcg strength.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Spiriva?

A: If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for the next dose, skipped your missed dose and continue as normal. Do not take two doses to make up for a missed one.

Q: How much does Spiriva cost?

A: The price of Spiriva depends on the quantity you purchase. Buying Spiriva online with Canada Drugs can help you to save up to 90% on the price of your medication and you can make even better savings by buying a 90 day supply of your medication. No Spiriva coupon is needed to get our great prices.