Spiriva Respimat

Spiriva Respimat Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Spiriva Respimat is a brand name. Its generic name is Tiotropium.

Spiriva Respimat (Spiriva)

Spiriva Respimat (Spiriva) is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) used in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other bronchopulmonary conditions. It is inhaled through the mouth and is approved for both preventative or maintenance therapies.

Uses

Spiriva Respimat (Spiriva) is prescribed for those with COPD, chronic bronchitis, and bronchial asthma who are either partially or totally dependent on supplemental oxygen therapy. It is a preventive drug used to manage symptoms associated with COPD and other bronchopulmonary disorders, such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Excess mucus production

Mechanism of Action

Spiriva Respimat (Spiriva) acts by blocking muscarinic receptors in the airways, resulting in a bronchodilator effect. This relaxes the airway smooth muscle resulting in widened airways and improved breathing. It also has an anti-inflammatory action, which reduces congestion and excess mucus production.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effects of tiotropium (Spiriva) usually take effect after 30 to 60 minutes of inhalation and can last up to 24 hours. However, some people may experience relief from symptoms almost immediately.

Absorption

Spiriva Respimat is rapidly and completely absorbed after inhalation through the mouth. Peak plasma concentrations occur within 1 to 2 hours post-inhalation.

Route of Elimination

Spiriva Respimat is partially metabolized to desisopropyl- and desmethyltiotropium and is mostly eliminated through urine. It has a terminal elimination half-life of around 24 hours.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of tiotropium (Spiriva) is 18 mcg (9 mcg capsule) administered once daily as a single inhalation.

Administration

Spiriva Respimat (Spiriva) should be administered as one inhalation once daily through the Respimat inhaler. Before use, the patient should rinse their mouth with water and spit out any excess water. The Respimat inhaler should be released twice into the mouth and the patient should breathe in deeply and slowly for as long as possible.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include dry mouth, coughing, throat irritation and headache. More serious side effects may include chest pain, blurred vision, fast heart rate or difficulty urinating.

Toxicity

The toxic dose of tiotropium (Spiriva) is not well established; however, it is thought to be relatively low due to the form of delivery (inhalation) which minimizes the risk of systemic toxicity. However, patients should be monitored for any signs of toxicity such as irregular heart rate, tremor, confusion or restlessness.

Precautions

Spiriva Respimat should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma, difficulty urinating due to enlarged prostate, or uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma due to an increased risk of urinary retention and eye pressure. It should also be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as safety has not been established in this population.

Interactions

Spiriva Respimat (Spiriva) has the potential to interact with other drugs, such as anticholinergics and antihypertensives, so patients should be monitored for any potential interaction. Other drugs that may interact with tiotropium include theophylline, quinidine, and medications for depression or seizures. It should also be used with caution in patients taking medications for glaucoma.

Disease Interaction

Spiriva Respimat (Spiriva) may worsen symptoms of certain diseases, such as narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, and asthma. Patients with any of these conditions should be closely monitored while taking tiotropium.

Drug Interaction

Certain drugs may interact with tiotropium (Spiriva) and should be used with caution. These include anticholinergics, antihypertensives, and medications for depression or seizures. Theophylline, ephedrine, and quinidine may increase the level of tiotropium in the body and should be used with caution while taking tiotropium.

Food Interactions

Spiriva Respimat should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, as food may decrease the absorption of the medication. Avoid acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, as they may reduce efficacy.

Pregnancy Use

There are no human data available about the use of tiotropium (Spiriva) in pregnancy, therefore it is not recommended for use in this population. Animal studies have shown it to be unsafe when administered to pregnant animals, so it should not be used during pregnancy unless it is essential.

Lactation Use

There is no data available on the use of tiotropium (Spiriva) in lactating women, therefore it is not recommended for use in this population. If it must be used, monitoring for any adverse effects in the infant is recommended.

Acute Overdose

There is no data on the effects of an acute overdose of tiotropium (Spiriva). In the event of an overdose, monitoring for signs of toxicity such as irregular heart rate, tremor, confusion or restlessness is recommended.

Contraindication

Spiriva Respimat should not be used in those with hypersensitivity, urinary obstruction, narrow-angle glaucoma, or paralytic ileus. It should also be used with caution in those with severe renal impairment, as it is not well studied in this population.

Use Direction

Spiriva Respimat (Spiriva) should be administered as one inhalation once daily through the Respimat inhaler. Before use, the patient should rinse their mouth with water and spit out any excess water. The Respimat inhaler should be released twice into the mouth and the patient should breathe in deeply and slowly for as long as possible.

Storage Condition

Spiriva Respimat (Spiriva) should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and damp conditions. It is important to keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

Spiriva Respimat has a volume of distribution of 43 L. It is highly bound to plasma proteins, but still distributes well into all tissues.

Half Life

The half life of tiotropium (Spiriva) is approximately 24 hours.

Clearance

Spiriva Respimat is cleared by both renal and non-renal routes. Non-renal clearance is mainly through the liver, while renal clearance is via glomerular filtration. The overall clearance of tiotropium is 2.1 L/hr.

Here you find in details version of Spiriva Respimat

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Spiriva Respimat

What is Spiriva Respimat?

Spiriva Respimat is a medication prescribed to people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is a bronchodilator, meaning it relaxes the muscles around the airways, thus allowing more air to flow into the lungs.

How does Spiriva Respimat work?

Spiriva Respimat works by blocking receptors in the lungs called muscarinic receptors, which control the amount of air that can go in and out of the lungs. Blocking these receptors causes the muscles around the airways to relax, which in turn increases air flow.

How long does Spiriva Respimat take to work?

Spiriva Respimat usually starts to work within one hour after taking it. However, it can take up to two weeks of consistently taking the medication in order to start experiencing the full benefits.

How long does Spiriva Respimat stay in the body?

Spiriva Respimat has an elimination half-life of approximately 22 hours, meaning it can stay in the body for up to two days. It is not known how long it takes for Spiriva Respimat to completely leave the body.

What are the side effects of Spiriva Respimat?

The most common side effects of Spiriva Respimat are dry mouth, headache, upset stomach, and constipation. Other more serious side effects may include difficulty breathing, chest pain, rapid heart rate, and hallucination. If you experience these or any other severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Can Spiriva Respimat cause a cough?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat can cause a cough. In some cases, a dry cough may be relieved by taking a smaller dose of the medication. Your doctor can advise you about the best way to reduce the cough.

Does Spiriva Respimat lower the amount of oxygen in the blood?

No, Spiriva Respimat does not lower the amount of oxygen in the blood. In some cases, Spiriva Respimat can help increase the amount of oxygen in the blood by opening up the airways and making it easier to breathe.

Does Spiriva Respimat interact with other medications?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat can interact with certain medications. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking, so they can determine if any of them will interact with Spiriva Respimat.

Can Spiriva Respimat be used with an inhaler or nebulizer?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat can be used with an inhaler or a nebulizer. A nebulizer is usually more effective and less likely to cause side effects, but it is also more expensive and less portable. Your doctor can advise you on the best way to deliver the medication.

Is Spiriva Respimat safe for long term use?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat is considered safe for long term use. Studies have shown that Spiriva Respimat can reduce exacerbations and improve lung function in those suffering from COPD when taken consistently over time.

How should Spiriva Respimat be stored?

Spiriva Respimat should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. It should also be kept out of reach of children and pets.

Can Spiriva Respimat be used to treat asthma?

No, Spiriva Respimat is not approved for the treatment of asthma. It is only approved for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Can Spiriva Respimat be taken with other COPD medications?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat can be taken with other COPD medications. However, some medications may interact with each other, so be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.

What is the recommended dose of Spiriva Respimat?

The recommended dose of Spiriva Respimat is one 18 mcg inhalation capsule, once daily. Depending on how well it works for you, your doctor may adjust the dosage.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Spiriva Respimat?

If you miss a dose of Spiriva Respimat, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Does Spiriva Respimat cause weight gain?

No, Spiriva Respimat does not cause weight gain. If you experience any weight gain while taking Spiriva Respimat, please contact your doctor.

Can Spiriva Respimat cause dizziness?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat can cause dizziness. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you experience any persistent or severe dizziness while taking Spiriva Respimat.

Can Spiriva Respimat be taken with other asthma or COPD medications?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat can be taken with other asthma or COPD medications. However, as some medications can interact, it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.

Can I take other bronchodilators with Spiriva Respimat?

Yes, you can take other bronchodilators with Spiriva Respimat. However, be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any other medications, as they may interact with Spiriva Respimat.

Can I take Spiriva Respimat while pregnant?

No, Spiriva Respimat is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking Spiriva Respimat.

Can I take Spiriva Respimat while breastfeeding?

No, Spiriva Respimat is not recommended for use while breastfeeding. However, talk to your doctor before taking any medications while breastfeeding.

Does Spiriva Respimat cause an increase in blood pressure?

No, Spiriva Respimat does not cause an increase in blood pressure. Your doctor may monitor your blood pressure while you are taking this medication.

Are there any special precautions I should take while taking Spiriva Respimat?

Yes, you should always take Spiriva Respimat as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose, and do not take it more often than instructed. Also, do not stop taking Spiriva Respimat without consulting your doctor, as this can cause your condition to worsen.

Does Spiriva Respimat have any drug interactions?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat can interact with certain medications, including anticholinergic drugs. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking, so they can determine if any of them will interact with Spiriva Respimat.

What should I do if I experience any side effects while taking Spiriva Respimat?

If you experience any severe side effects while taking Spiriva Respimat, contact your doctor immediately. Even mild side effects should be discussed with your doctor so that they can prescribe a different medication if necessary.

Should I take Spiriva Respimat with food?

No, Spiriva Respimat does not need to be taken with food. It can be taken at any time, with or without food.

If I forget to take my Spiriva Respimat dose, should I double up the next time?

No, you should not double up your Spiriva Respimat dose if you miss a dose. Simply take your next dose at the usual time, and do not take a double dose.

Can I take Spiriva Respimat on an as-needed basis?

No, Spiriva Respimat should not be taken on an as-needed basis. It needs to be taken regularly in order to work effectively, so talk to your doctor about the best dosing schedule for you.

Can Spiriva Respimat be used to treat bronchitis?

No, Spiriva Respimat is not approved for the treatment of bronchitis. It is only approved for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

What should I do if I experience chest pain while taking Spiriva Respimat?

If you experience chest pain while taking Spiriva Respimat, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately. Chest pain can be a sign of a serious medical condition, so it is important to get it checked out as soon as possible.

What is the usual length of treatment with Spiriva Respimat?

The usual length of treatment with Spiriva Respimat varies from person to person. Talk to your doctor about your individual needs and they will be able to advise you on the best way to take this medication.

Does Spiriva Respimat interact with alcohol?

Yes, alcohol can interact with Spiriva Respimat and increase the risk of side effects. Therefore, you should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Spiriva Respimat.

Can I take Spiriva Respimat if I have glaucoma?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat can be taken if you have glaucoma. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications if you have glaucoma, as some drugs can worsen the condition.

Can I take Spiriva Respimat if I have kidney disease?

Yes, Spiriva Respimat can be taken if you have kidney disease. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications if you have kidney disease, as some drugs can worsen the condition.

What is the recommended age for taking Spiriva Respimat?

The recommended age for taking Spiriva Respimat is 18 years and older. Talk to your doctor if you are taking this medication and are younger than 18.

Can I use a spacer with my Spiriva Respimat inhaler?

Yes, you can use a spacer device with your Spiriva Respimat inhaler. This device can help you get the medication deep into your lungs, so ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How long should I wait between doses of Spiriva Respimat?

The recommended interval between doses of Spiriva Respimat is 24 hours. Do not take more than one dose in a 24 hour period.

Can Spiriva Respimat reduce inflammation in the lungs?

No, Spiriva Respimat does not reduce inflammation in the lungs. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, thereby increasing air flow. If you have inflammation in the lungs, your doctor may prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication in addition to Spiriva Respimat.