Tiotropium bromide is used in maintenance treatment of asthma and other similar conditions by relaxing the airways in your lungs.
This medicine helps relieves chest tightness, wheezing and cough so that you can breathe more easily.
Use Tiotropium bromide exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Tiotropium is available as a capsule or as a solution for inhalation.
If you have been given a capsule for inhalation, a device called handihaler will be used. To take a dose:
1. Take the capsule out from the blister pack (remove capsule only before use). Do not leave the capsule exposed to air for too long.
2. Place the capsule inside the center chamber of the handihaler. Close the mouthpiece firmly until you hear a click sound.
3. Hold the handihaler with the mouthpiece facing upwards.
4. Press and release the piercing button once.
5. Breathe out completely.
6. Place the handihaler to your mouth and close your lips firmly around the mouthpiece.
7. Breathe in slowly and deeply until your lungs are full. As you breathe in, you should hear or feel the capsule vibrate.
8. Hold your breath for as long as you can. At the same time, remove the handihaler from your mouth.
9. Repeat steps 5-8. This will ensure you receive the full dose.
To take a dose using the solution for inhalation:
1. Keep the cap closed while holding the inhaler in an upright position.
2. Turn the base in the direction of the arrows on the label until you hear a click sound.
3. Open the cap fully.
4. Breathe out fully. Close your lips around the mouthpiece. Do not cover the air vents.
5. Point the inhaler towards the back of your throat.
6. Breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth while pressing the dose release button. Continue to breathe in slowly.
7. Hold your breath for 10 seconds or as long as you can.
Make sure you know how to use the specific type of device you have been given. If you have problems or if you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you how to use it.
Tiotropium bromide must be used regularly for it to be effective. Continue using this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not use this medicine if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to Tiotropium bromide, atropine or any similar medicine such as ipratropium.
Do not use Tiotropium bromide to relieve a sudden attack of breathlessness.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- narrow angle glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
- prostate or bladder disorder
- kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Avoid contact of this medicine with your eyes. If this occurs, rinse it with clean water. See a doctor quickly if you experience any problems with your eyesight after the solution or mist enters your eyes.
For as long as you are using this medicine, you may need to monitor signs or symptoms of an increased pressure in the eye or an inability to urinate. Routine lung and kidney function tests may also be needed to check your body’s response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Tiotropium bromide may cause dizziness or blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.
Other side effects include any of the following: dry mouth, inflammation of the throat or sinus, headache, cough, stomach pain or discomfort, constipation and problems urinating.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacst if you are taking any other asthma medicines e.g. ipratropium, oxitropium, salbutamol or theophylline.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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