What Is Tiotropium 18mcg?
Tiotropium 18mcg capsules contain tiotropium bromide, a long-acting anticholinergic bronchodilator. Each capsule is designed for use with a compatible inhalation device rather than being swallowed.
This medicine belongs to a group known as long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs), used specifically for the ongoing management of COPD symptoms rather than for immediate relief of sudden breathing difficulty.
As a maintenance therapy, tiotropium 18mcg is generally used every day, at the same time, to help maintain more open airways and reduce the frequency of COPD symptoms over time.
Uses
Tiotropium 18mcg may be prescribed to:
Provide long-term maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Help control symptoms of chronic bronchitis and emphysema
Reduce the frequency of COPD flare-ups (exacerbations) as part of an ongoing treatment plan
Support easier breathing by keeping the airways relaxed over a 24-hour period
The appropriate treatment and dose should be determined by a healthcare professional based on an individual's diagnosis and lung function.
How Does Tiotropium Work?
Tiotropium works by blocking receptors in the airway muscles that would otherwise cause them to tighten. By blocking this signal, the airway muscles stay more relaxed, helping keep the airways open and making it easier to breathe.
This medicine is intended for regular, ongoing use rather than fast relief. It does not act quickly enough to manage a sudden asthma or COPD attack, and a separate fast-acting inhaler is generally still needed for that purpose. With consistent daily use, the effect on airway opening is designed to last approximately 24 hours.
How to Take Tiotropium
Take Tiotropium exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
Usually taken once daily, at the same time each day
Each capsule is used with the inhalation device provided; the capsule is pierced inside the device and the powder is inhaled through the mouthpiece
Do not swallow the capsules — they are for inhalation only
Can generally be used at any time of day, independent of meals
Not intended for sudden breathing difficulty; keep a fast-acting rescue inhaler available if one has been prescribed
Do not stop or change your treatment without speaking to your doctor, even if your breathing feels improved
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. Do not take two doses on the same day to make up for a missed one.
Important Safety Information
Before using Tiotropium, tell your doctor or pharmacist about your full medical history and all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you currently use.
Caution or closer monitoring may be needed if you have:
Glaucoma (particularly narrow-angle glaucoma)
An enlarged prostate, difficulty passing urine, or bladder outlet obstruction
Kidney problems, which may increase the amount of medicine retained in the body
A known allergy to tiotropium, ipratropium, or atropine-related medicines
Tiotropium may interact with other inhaled anticholinergic medicines, as combining similar medicines can increase the risk of side effects. It's important to check possible interactions, including with other respiratory inhalers, with your doctor or pharmacist.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
There is limited data on the use of tiotropium during pregnancy, and it is not known whether it could affect an unborn baby. It is also not known whether tiotropium passes into breast milk. Recommendations may vary by country and individual circumstances, so speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding, so the potential benefits and risks can be discussed.
Side Effects
Like all medicines, Tiotropium can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Common side effects include:
Dry mouth
Sore throat or cough
Headache
Dizziness
Constipation
Seek prompt medical attention if you experience sudden worsening of breathing or wheezing after use, eye pain or blurred vision, difficulty or pain passing urine, a noticeably fast or irregular heartbeat, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
This is not a complete list of side effects or warnings. Please refer to the product packaging and patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine for complete information and speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns.
Storage
Store Tiotropium according to the instructions shown on the original product packaging.
Keep capsules in their original blister packaging until ready to use, and protect from moisture
Keep out of reach and sight of children
Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging
