Key takeaways
Ipratropium and Spiriva (tiotropium) are both inhaled medications used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Ipratropium is a short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA) that you need to use 3 to 4 times a day with a nebulizer. In contrast, Spiriva is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA). It comes in two forms: comes in two forms: Spiriva HandiHaler and Spiriva Respimat (which is also approved to treat asthma). They're typically used once daily only. Both medications are not rescue medications and should not be used for sudden breathing problems. Common side effects of ipratropium include headache and cough, while Spiriva HandiHaler can cause dry mouth and upper respiratory tract infections. Both ipratropium and Sprivia HandiHaler are available as low-cost generics.
