GENERIC NAME: TIOTROPIUM - INHALATION CAPSULES (tee-oh-TROW-pee-um)
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: This medication is an anticholinergic agent inhaled into the lungs where it opens up breathing passages. It is used to treat breathing difficulties caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This medication does not work immediately and should not be used for asthma attacks. Use quick-relief medicines/inhalers for sudden shortness of breath or asthma attacks.
HOW TO USE: Do not swallow these capsules by mouth. The contents of the capsule are inhaled using a special inhaler, usually once daily as directed. Do not breathe into the mouthpiece at any time. Do not use this more often than prescribed. Carefully read the patient instruction sheet in the product package, and learn how to properly use the special inhaler device. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are unclear about any of the information. It may take several days before full benefits occur. For best results, this medication must be taken regularly, as directed by your doctor. Rinse your mouth after using the inhaler to help prevent dryness and relieve throat irritation. Follow the directions on the instruction sheet provided with this medication to clean the inhaler at least once a month. This medication works best when the level in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by inhaling your daily dose at the same time each day. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. If your condition persists or worsens, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, runny nose or irritated throat. If they persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fast heartbeat, difficulty urinating, white patches in your mouth, change in vaginal discharge. If the drug is accidentally sprayed in the eye, temporary blurring of vision or visual halos may occur. Contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms occur. In the unlikely event eye pain occurs, it may be a symptom of narrow-angle glaucoma. This is a very serious condition which may be induced by this drug, and which requires emergency medical attention. Rarely, inhaled medications may cause a worsening of breathing problems immediately after use. If this occurs, contact your doctor immediately. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - Learn about COPD - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease which is primarily two related diseases - chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
- Lungs Design And Purpose - Learn about the design and purpose of the lungs including how oxygen is taken into the body and carbon dioxide is expelled through gas exchange. Healthy lungs are important, and there are many diseases of the lung(s).
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