Key takeaways
Breztri Aerosphere (budesonide/glycopyrrolate/formoterol) and Spiriva (tiotropium) are both inhaled medications used to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, they differ in several ways. Breztri is a combination inhaler that includes an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS), a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), and a long-acting beta agonist (LABA), while Spiriva contains only a LAMA. Breztri is used twice daily, whereas Spiriva is taken once daily. Breztri is only available as a brand-name medication, while Spiriva HandiHaler is available as a generic. Breztri's common side effects include upper respiratory tract infections and pneumonia, while Spiriva can cause dry mouth and sinus inflammation. Additionally, Breztri is not approved for asthma, whereas Spiriva Respimat can be used for asthma in people aged 6 and older. Both medications require a rescue inhaler for sudden breathing problems, as they do not work quickly enough to relieve acute symptoms.
