What you need to know about the Tiotropium Inhaler

Have you been prescribed an inhaler by a doctor because you have a condition like asthma that makes you have difficulty breathing? If so, you probably know that there are many types of inhalers. Today we are going to talk about one of them, a specific type of inhaler, Tiotropium. This is a very important medicine that can help you control your breathing problems in the long term.

What kind of medicine is Tiotropium?

Simply put, Tiotropium is a medication used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) . Its main function is to widen the airways in your lungs, making it easier to breathe in and out.

This is often called a " controller inhaler." This means that it is used to control your condition on a daily basis and prevent breathing difficulties.

This medication is often found in Sri Lanka under the brand name `Spiriva Respimat`.

Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before your doctor prescribes this inhaler, they will need to know your complete medical history. So, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor about it.

• If you have glaucoma, a condition where the pressure in your eyes increases.
• If you have any kidney disease.
• If you are a man, you have a prostate disease.
• If you have allergies not only to Tiotropium, but also to other medications like `Ipratropium`, `Atropine`, foods, or anything else.
• If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant .
• If you are a breastfeeding mother .

By telling you these things accurately, your doctor can determine whether this medication is right for you or not.

How to use the inhaler correctly?

This medicine is used by inhaling through the mouth. The most important thing is to use it exactly as prescribed by the doctor, and at the right time.

• Always at the same time:Try to take this at the same time every day as much as possible. This will help keep the medicine's effectiveness in the body at the same level.
• Only use the prescribed amount: Do not use more than the amount prescribed by your doctor.
• Don't stop: Don't stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to. Even if you feel better, you should continue taking it because it is a disease-control medicine.
• Read the patient package insert: Read the patient package insert that comes with your medicine carefully. It explains step-by-step how to use the inhaler correctly.

Can this medicine be given to children?

Yes, in some special cases, this medicine can be prescribed to children over 6 years of age. But the decision about this is made by a pediatrician. Therefore, if you are giving this to a child, talk to the doctor carefully about it.

What if it is used incorrectly or excessively?

If you think you have taken more than you think, don't panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

Missing a dose of medication can happen to anyone. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is very close to your next dose when you remember (for example, it is only a few hours away), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine

Some other medications you are taking may interact with this Tiotropium inhaler. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. Below are some medications that may interact with Tiotropium.

This list is not exhaustive. So, tell your doctor about any over-the-counter medications you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, traditional medicines, and supplements . It is also important to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol .

Things to be careful about when using

• See your doctor regularly: Check in with your doctor regularly to see how your condition is. If your symptoms don't improve or seem to be getting worse, tell your doctor .
• Dry mouth: It is common to experience dry mouth while taking this medication. This can be managed by chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free candy, and drinking plenty of water throughout the day. If this persists, tell your doctor.
• Dizziness and attention: Some people may feel a little dizzy or lightheaded after taking this medicine. So, until you know exactly how this medicine will affect you,Avoid driving or operating machinery that requires alertness. Get up slowly, not suddenly, as when getting out of bed. These side effects may be increased if you drink alcohol.

Possible side effects of the medicine

Like all medications, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common. It's important to be aware of these.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual in addition to these, talk to your doctor about that as well.

How do you store and remove the inhaler?

• Storage: Keep the inhaler out of the reach of children and pets . Ideally, it should be stored at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not store in areas with excessive heat, cold, or humidity.
• Disposal: Dispose of the inhaler after 3 months from the date of removal from the foil packet, when the dose counter on the inhaler shows "0" , or when the expiration date has passed, whichever comes first. Ask your doctor how to safely dispose of expired medicines. Do not put them in the regular trash.