Tiotropium

WHAT IS IT?

Tiotropium (Spiriva) is a long term antimuscarinic (anti-cholinergic) medication. It will cause smooth muscle relaxation around the bronchioles, ultimately resulting in broncho-dilation.

WHEN DO WE USE IT?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): this medication is one of the chronic treatments used for COPD.

Asthma: given its mechanism, this medication is used in patients with more severe asthma/asthma exacerbations.

WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?

Know hypersensitivity to atropine or its derivatives (ipratopium)

HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?

Oral inhalation

Source
Source
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?

Dry mouth is one of the most common side effects (due to its anticholinergic activity)

FURTHER READING

DynaMed

UpToDate

 

Page Updated: 08.17.2016