Spiriva
(tiotropium)
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Summary for Tiotropium
Spiriva (tiotropium) is a medication used to help control chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. There are two different Spiriva inhalers: Spiriva Respimat is a metered-dose inhaler, and Spiriva HandiHaler is a device that you place a capsule of medication into before you take the medication. The typical dosage for Spiriva (tiotropium) is two inhalations once a day, but the dose depends on the reason you're using it. Side effects include dry mouth, cough, and upper respiratory tract infections. Only Spiriva HandiHaler is also available as a generic version.
Indications for Tiotropium
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Asthma in people age 6 years and older - Spiriva Respimat only
Pros and Cons for Tiotropium
Pros
- Helps prevent attacks or flare-ups
- Has few side effects
- Used once daily
- Doesn't commonly cause a fast heart rate like some other bronchodilators
- Available as a lower-cost generic (Spiriva HandiHaler only)
Cons
- Doesn't work fast enough to be used as a rescue inhaler for attacks
- Can be difficult for some people to use
- Can cause dry mouth as a side effect
- Only Spiriva Respimat can be used for asthma in children 6 years and older
- Spiriva Respimat is currently only available as brand name
Common Side Effects for Tiotropium
Spiriva HandiHaler and generic
- Upper respiratory tract infection (41%)
- Dry mouth (16%)
- Sinus inflammation (11%)
- Sore throat (9%)
- Urinary tract infection (7%)
- Chest pain (7%)
Spiriva Respimat
- Sore throat (12%)
- Cough (6%)
- Dry mouth (4%)
- Sinus inflammation (3%)
Warnings for Tiotropium
- Not a rescue inhaler
- Allergic reaction
- Sudden airway tightening (paradoxical bronchospasm)
- Worsening glaucoma
- Urination problems
- Higher risk for side effects in people with kidney problems
Summary for Albuterol
Albuterol sulfate is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA). It's a rescue inhaler that treats or prevents sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in adults and children at least 4 years old with certain breathing problems, such as asthma. Albuterol is inhaled through the mouth using either an HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) or a dry powder inhaler. The typical dose is 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours as needed when you suddenly have trouble breathing. Albuterol side effects generally include sore throat, throat irritation, and infections.
Indications for Albuterol
- Treatment or prevention of wheezing or tightening of airways in people ages 4 years and older with certain types of lung problems (e.g., asthma)
- Prevention of exercise-induced asthma in people ages 4 years and older
Pros and Cons for Albuterol
Pros
- Works within minutes to help you breathe easier when you have an asthma attack or trouble breathing
- Only used as needed when you're short of breath or when you're about to exercise
- Can be used by children as young as 4 years old
- Available as two types of inhalers: HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) and dry powder inhaler
Cons
- Might have to use the inhaler multiple times per day since it's a short-acting medication
- Might be difficult for some people to use the inhaler properly
- Should carry with you at all times so you can use it when you need to
Common Side Effects for Albuterol
- Sore throat
- Throat irritation
- Runny nose
- Upper respiratory infection
Note: Side effects you might have can depend on your age, dose, the type of albuterol inhaler you're using, and how often you're using the inhaler.
Warnings for Albuterol
- Breathing problems
- Heart problems
- Low potassium in the blood
- Allergic reactions
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