Spiriva combo pack is an inhalation remedy available in the form of hard capsules containing inhalation powder. It comes along with an inhaler device. It is used in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. The medicine is fit for use in adults over 18 years of age. Spiriva is a long-acting bronchodilator that works by opening the airways and allowing air to pass in and out of the lungs without any problem. It makes breathing easier and minimizes the effects of the disease in your life. Each light green, hard capsule contains the chief active ingredient tiotropium (as bromide monohydrate) and lactose monohydrate, which contains protein milk. Spiriva is meant for oral inhalation only and you should avoid it if you are allergic to tiotropium or lactose monohydrate or any other ingredients contained in the medicine. In case of women, you are advised to consult your GP before taking the medicine if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant or are breastfeeding. You should also check with your pharmacist or GP if you are suffering from narrow angle glaucoma, prostate problems, kidney problems or have difficulty passing urine. If you are taking or have recently taken other medicines or similar medicines for your lung disease, you must tell your GP in advance.
Regular use of the inhaler may cause a few side effects. However, not all patients experience the side effects. One of the common side effects associated with the use of Spiriva is dry mouth. Other common side effects include: ● Dizziness ● Headache ● Taste disorders ● Blurred vision ● Irregular heart beats ● Sore throat ● Hoarseness ● Cough ● Heart burn (gastrooesophageal reflux disease) ● Constipation ● Fungal infections of the oral cavity and throat (oropharyngeal candidiasis) ● Rash ● Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention) ● Painful urination (dysuria) Contact the GP immediately in case you experience insomnia, allergic reaction, nosebleed, itching, nausea, difficulty swallowing, faster heartbeat or palpitations following the use of the medication. Such cases warrant the need of an immediate medical attention.
Spiriva inhaler is meant to be taken through the mouth and you should never swallow the capsules as whole. Read the instructions carefully and if you are not sure, ask your GP or pharmacist. To use the inhaler, first open the dust cap by pressing the piercing button. Then open the mouthpiece, pulling it upwards. Now place a capsule from inside the chamber and then close the mouthpiece. Hold the inhaler firmly and press the piercing button to make holes in the capsule so that the medication can be inhaled. After that, breathe out completely. Raise the inhaler to your mouth. Put the mouthpiece inside your mouth and breathe in slowly. Breathe until your lungs are full and then take out the inhaler from your mouth. Breathe normally. After use, open the mouthpiece again to bring out the used capsule and dispose it. Close the mouthpiece and dust cap. Clean the inhaler with warm water and dry it properly before another use. Take the puffs as prescribed by the GP and do not exceed the prescribed dose. Ideally, the normal dosage is one capsule a day. If you forget, do not double-up the dose to compensate for the missed one, Do not stop using the inhaler on your own. It may worsen your problem. Always consult the GP or pharmacist before taking such a decision. Take care during inhalation and protect your eyes. If any powder goes inside, wash them with warm water and immediately consult your GP. If you inhale more than the prescribed amount, seek immediate medical help.
Spiriva is a long-acting bronchodilator that works by relaxing and opening the bronchial passageways which improves the passage of air into the lungs. It creates a deep effect in the air passages and helps in normal breathing. This helps to keep asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis, in check. Daily use of Spiriva helps control and prevent sudden, short-term worsening of the COPD symptoms. Such symptoms tend to last for several days. Spiriva is a preventer, that is, its daily use will help prevent an asthma attack and maintenance of symptoms associated with COPD. Do not use it as a treatment aid for a sudden attack of wheezing or breathlessness. This inhaler is ideal for use in adults over 18 years of age and should not be given to children below 12 years of age. It may cause dizziness, blurred vision or headache after inhalation. So, you are advised not to drive or operate machinery until the symptoms go away. Keep the medicine out of reach and sight of children. Spiriva should always be stored below 25 degree Celsius and should not be exposed to sunlight, heat, flame or freezing temperatures. Make sure to check the expiry date and do not use it after the printed date. The hard capsule contains lactose. Therefore, tell the doctor up front in case you are lactose intolerant.
