Tiotropium

Also sold asSpiriva, Braltus

Type of medicineLong-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA)

Available asInhaler capsules, Respimat soft mist inhaler

How you get itPrescription only

Tiotropium keeps the airways open over 24 hours. It is a maintenance treatment for COPD and sometimes asthma — not something to reach for when you are breathless, which is what your reliever is for.

How to use it

Handihaler and Braltus capsules are for inhaling only — never swallow them. The capsule goes into the device, is pierced, and you breathe the powder in. Swallowing it does nothing and is a common mistake.

Once daily at the same time each day. With the Respimat soft mist inhaler, follow the specific priming and loading instructions — they differ from other inhalers.

Ask us to check your technique. Dry powder devices need a fast, deep breath in; the Respimat needs a slow steady one.

Cautions

Tell your prescriber if you have:

Glaucoma, particularly narrow-angle glaucoma — report eye pain, blurred vision or halos around lights urgently
Prostate problems or difficulty passing urine — tiotropium can make this worse
Kidney problems

Avoid getting the powder or mist in your eyes.

Side effects and everyday points

Dry mouth is the commonest effect — sipping water and sugar-free gum help. Also constipation, sore throat, cough and headache.

Report difficulty passing urine, eye pain or visual changes, or wheezing immediately after use.

Keep using your reliever inhaler for symptoms; tiotropium does not replace it.

Have an annual COPD review and make sure you are offered the flu and pneumococcal vaccines — both matter more with COPD.

Always read the label. This page is general information, not advice for your situation. Doses, warnings and interactions differ between products and between people. Check the leaflet inside your medicine, and ask our pharmacist if anything is unclear — that conversation is free and takes two minutes.

Questions about Tiotropium?

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Frequently asked questions

Do I swallow tiotropium capsules?

No, never. The capsule goes into the inhaler device to be pierced and inhaled. Swallowing it does nothing.

Can I use tiotropium when I am breathless?

No — it is a maintenance inhaler taken once daily. Use your reliever for symptoms.

Why does tiotropium give me a dry mouth?

It is the most common side effect. Sipping water and sugar-free gum help, and good dental care matters.

Should I tell my prescriber about glaucoma or prostate problems?

Yes — tiotropium can worsen both. Report eye pain, halos around lights or difficulty passing urine.

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