Spiriva Side Effects

Serious Side Effects of Spiriva

aching or pain of the chest, rapid heart beat
changes in vision, blurry vision, appearance of halos around lights, change in color perception, or eye pains or redness
new infection: soreness of the throat, fever, or feeling cold or having chills
sinus infection or headaches
trouble urinating or pain while urinating
swollen hands, lower parts of the legs, ankles or feet
symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: red or itchy skin, hives, trouble breathing, hoarseness, swelling of the mouth, tongue, throat, lips, eyes or face

Common Side Effects of Spiriva

dryness of the mouth or mouth sores (white patches)
indigestion (heartburn)
bowel problems including constipation
upset stomach, pains in the stomach and vomiting
muscle aching or pain
abnormal bleeding such as nosebleeds
allergy symptoms such as a runny nose and sneezing

Warnings & Recalls for Spiriva

FDA and Spiriva

In 2008 the FDA alerted the public about a possible increase in cardiovascular problems, such as a heart attack or stroke. However, in 2010, these statements were revoked as the FDA investigated this risk and determined that Spiriva was not linked to these cases.

Pregnancy and Spiriva

Spiriva has been assigned as an FDA pregnancy Category C drug. Studies do not confirm if Spiriva may be harmful to the fetus if taken during pregnancy. It is unknown if Spriva transfers through breast milk or could cause harm to a nursing baby. If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking Spiriva.

General Warnings

Do not use Spiriva if you are allergic to any ingredient in Spiriva. Before taking Spiriva, let your doctor know about your medical history, be sure to include information about:

any allergies you may have (especially to milk produces)
kidney disease
narrow angle-glaucoma
an enlarged or swollen prostate
any blockages of the bladder

Spiriva Interactions

Tell your healthcare provider about any medicines you are currently taking, as the following may interact with Spiriva:

atropine
atropa belladonna
anticholinergics
anti-nausea drugs
methscopolamine
scopolamine
any other medicines for breathing disorders
treatments for allergies or colds
irritable bowel syndrome drugs
corticosteroids (steroids)
ulcer treatments
medications for treating bladder or urinary problems

Spiriva Treatment and Use

Spiriva | tiotropium is an oral inhalant bronchodilator marketed by Pfizer Inc. for treating breathing disorders and their symptoms, such as wheeziness, trouble breathing, and feeling short of breath. Spiriva may be prescribed to patients with the following conditions:

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (CPPD)
chronic bronchitis
emphysema

Spiriva does not treat spasms that have already begun.

How Does Spiriva Work?

Spiriva works by attaching to receptors in the airways which cause symptoms of breathing disorders. Spiriva prevents this action and allows muscles to relax, creating more open passageways and resulting in easier breathing.

How to Use Spiriva

Spiriva comes in capsule form to be placed inside a special inhaler (HandiHaler). Do not swallow the capsules. The capsules contain dry powder to be breathed in once daily. Use Spiriva at the same time each day as prescribed by your doctor. Read and follow all packaged instructions and directions given to you by your doctor.

Do not use more Spiriva that prescribed, you may be at risk of an overdose.

Spiriva is not a replacement for a fast-acting inhaler.

Other Names for Spiriva

Brand name:

Spiriva

Generic name:

Tiotopium oral