Spiriva Coupon & Discounts

Spiriva Information:

• What

What is Spiriva?

Spiriva consists of two products, tiotropium bromide, a dry, white powder for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis, and an inhaler device to deliver the medication (Spiriva HandiHaler). Tiotropium bromide is a bronchodilator, relaxing the air passages in the lungs, allowing them to open so the patient can breathe more easily. It helps relieve chest tightness, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and other problems associated with COPD bronchospasms.

• How

How do I take Spiriva?

Spiriva consists of capsules containing tiotropium bromide powder and a specially designed inhaler. The inhaler is used for inhaling the dry powder in the capsules. Spiriva is usually taken once a day, in either the morning or the evening. To develop a routine, it is recommended that this medication be taken at the same time every day. Do not swallow the capsules.

Before using the HandiHaler device, familiarize yourself with the diagram that was provided to learn the names of the parts. To use the Spiriva HandiHaler:

• Remove one Spiriva capsule from the blister pack and place it in the HandiHaler device;
• Press and release the green button (once) located on the side of the inhaler;
• Exhale fully before placing the inhaler between the lips;
• After exhaling, insert the inhaler mouthpiece between the lips, closing them to create a seal, and inhale slowly and deeply. You should feel or hear the capsule vibrate. Do not breathe through your nose.
• Hold your breath and remove the mouthpiece. Resume normal breathing.
• Once finished, remove the used capsule and dispose of it, then rinse the device and allow it to dry.
• Precautions

Before taking Spiriva, tell your doctor if:

• You are allergic to tiotropium or similar medications such as ipratropium or atropine;
• You are allergic to any medications;
• You are taking any medications (both prescription and non-prescription), vitamins, or supplements;
• You are taking antihistamines;
• You are taking any medications including erythromycin, disopyramide, amiodarone, dofetilide, atropine, or cisapride;
• You have or are taking medications for Parkinson’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, urinary problems, motion sickness, ulcers, or other illnesses or conditions;
• You have glaucoma;
• You have heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease;
• You have an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer;
• You are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are nursing.
• Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of taking Spiriva?

There have been several side effects reported by people who use Spiriva, some more severe than others. Less severe side effects include indigestion, stomach pain, constipation, vomiting, runny nose, sneezing, nosebleed, dry mouth, or white patches in the mouth (painful). Call your doctor if these persist or become severe.

Side effects that are more serious include rapid heart rate, anaphylaxis, itching, hives, or skin rash; difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue, eyes, throat, and the extremities; headaches or symptoms of a sinus infection; red eyes, sore eyes or eye pain, blurred vision, seeing colored images or halos around lights; painful urination. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your physician immediately.

• Missed Dose

What if I forget to take a dose of Spiriva?

If you forget to take your scheduled dose of Spiriva, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to time for the next dose, skip the missed one and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

• Storage

How do I store Spiriva?

Keep this medication in its original container, tightly sealed, and stored out of the reach of children. Keep Spiriva away from extremes of temperature and do not open a sealed capsule until it is time to take it. Do not store capsules inside the inhaler. If a capsule is removed from its blister pack and it cannot be used immediately, dispose of it. Dispose of expired or unused capsules according to the recommendations of your pharmacist.

• Overdose

What happens if I overdose on Spiriva?

When an overdose of Spiriva is suspected, seek help by contacting poison control at 1-800-222-1222. If the individual has stopped breathing or collapsed, immediately seek help and Spiriva patient assistance by calling Emergency Services at 911.

• Additional Info

Warnings

Do not inhale the Spiriva capsule or let anyone else take this medication; may cause anaphylaxis, angioedema, or life-threatening paradoxical bronchospasm. May cause dizziness and drowsiness so do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or use power tools until you understand your reactions to this medication. Spiriva can only be inhaled using the inhaler provided; do not try to use any other inhaler with this medication, or try to use other medications with the Spiriva HandiHaler. Do not use this medication to treat a sudden attack of wheezing or shortness of breath; use the alternative medication your doctor prescribed.

Brand Names

Spiriva is prescribed along with the Spiriva HandiHaler and is not available in the generic form. Because the Spiriva cost can skyrocket so quickly, patients are urged to use a Spiriva discount card or Spiriva discount coupon to enjoy the significant savings that are available. This is particularly important if the individual does not have access to a Spiriva copay card issued by an insurance company or other programs to help control the Spiriva price.