What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Spiriva (Tiotropium)
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Product Details
Description
SPIRIVA RESPIMAT (Tiotropium) is an inhaled medication prescribed to treat asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Patients with these conditions may have trouble breathing because of bronchospasms, which is an abnormal tightening of the muscles of the lungs.
SPIRIVA RESPIMAT works by binding to receptors on the surface of muscle cells in the lung called muscarinic-receptors. When SPIRIVA RESPIMAT binds to these receptors, it causes lung muscles to relax, causing bronchodilation and making breathing easier.
Fact Table
Formula
C19H22BrNO4S2
License
US FDA, US DailyMed
Bioavailability
19.5%
Legal status
Rx-Only
Chemical Name
Tiotropium
Elimination half-life
5–6 days
Dosage (Strength)
Respimat 2.5mcg (60 puffs/30 doses/inhaler), 18mcg (30 doses/Handihaler), 18mcg (30 doses/rotacaps)
Pregnancy
Not Harmful
Brands
Spiriva
Protein binding
72%
PubChem CID
5487426
MedlinePlus
a604018
ChEBI
90959
ATC code
R03BB04
DrugBank
DB01409
KEGG
D01929
Routes of administration
inhalation
Directions
The SPIRIVA RESPIMAT dosage is different depending on what you are using the medication for.
- Asthma: Two inhalations of SPIRIVA RESPIMAT 1.25 mcg once daily
- COPD: Two inhalations of SPIRIVA RESPIMAT 2.5 mcg once daily
You must take the medication every day for the full effect. SPIRIVA RESPIMAT is not a rescue inhaler, and should not be used to treat acute bronchospasm.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in SPIRIVA is tiotropium bromide. Tiotropium is also the name for SPIRIVA RESPIMAT generic.
Cautions
Some patients have reported bronchospasm while taking SPIRIVA RESPIMAT and similar medication. If you have a worsening of symptoms, stop taking the medication and call your doctor.
Use SPIRIVA RESPIMAT with caution if you have narrow-angle glaucoma because this medication can make symptoms worse.
Anticholinergics like SPIRIVA RESPIMAT can worsen urinary retention. Use with caution if you have a history of prostatic hyperplasia or bladder neck obstruction.
Side Effects
The most common adverse reactions while taking SPIRIVA are:
- Dry mouth
- Dyspepsia
- Non-specific chest pain
- Pharyngitis
- Rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Urinary tract infection
The side effects may be different depending on whether you are treating asthma or COPD. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for the entire list of side effects that applies to you.
References
- Spiriva Respimat [package insert]. Ridgefield, CT: Boehringer Ingelheim International; 2004.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spiriva
Is Spiriva a steroid medication?
No, Spiriva is not a steroid. It is an anticholinergic medication used for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management.
How to use Spiriva Respimat?
Spiriva Respimat is taken once daily by inhaling the prescribed dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
What does Spiriva do for the lungs?
Spiriva helps open the airways by relaxing tiny lung muscles. It can reduce the risk of asthma flare-ups and improve breathing.
What is the side effect of Spiriva?
Common side effects include dry mouth, throat irritation, and cough. Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Does Spiriva affect sleep?
Spiriva is unlikely to affect sleep directly. However, individual responses may vary.
Is Spiriva the same as Symbicort?
No, they are different medications. Spiriva is an anticholinergic, while Symbicort combines a long-acting beta-agonist and an inhaled corticosteroid.
What drugs should not be taken with Spiriva?
Consult your doctor, but avoid combining Spiriva with other anticholinergic medications.
Do I need to rinse my mouth after using Spiriva?
No, rinsing is not necessary after using Spiriva Respimat. But you can rinse your mouth after inhaling to prevent dryness and throat irritation. If using multiple inhalers, wait at least 1 minute between each.
How long can you be on Spiriva?
Your doctor will determine the duration based on your condition. Long-term use is common for managing asthma and COPD.
Should I take Spiriva in the morning or night?
Spiriva is usually taken at the same time each day, either in the morning or evening, as your doctor prescribes.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 12309
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