Tiotropium 18mcg

Tiotropium 18mcg — Uses and Benefits

Tiotropium 18mcg is used mainly to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and is sometimes added to treatment for asthma.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Long-term maintenance treatment of COPD symptoms like breathlessness, wheezing and cough
• Prevention of COPD flare-ups (exacerbations)
• Add-on maintenance treatment for certain patients with asthma, as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It belongs to a class of medicines called long-acting anticholinergics (LAMA)
• It relaxes the muscles around the airways, keeping them open for a longer time
• This improves airflow and reduces breathlessness through the day and night

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a rescue inhaler and will not relieve a sudden asthma or breathlessness attack
• It is not used to treat infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis caused by bacteria
• It is not meant for occasional or as-needed use; it works only when taken regularly

How to Use Tiotropium 18mcg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Use only with the inhaler device provided or prescribed for this medicine
• Take it at the same time every day, as advised by your doctor
• Do not swallow the capsule form; it is only for inhalation through the device
• Rinse your mouth with water after use if you experience dryness or irritation
• Do not use it more often than prescribed, even if you feel breathless
• Keep a fast-acting reliever inhaler handy for sudden symptoms, as advised by your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Never take two doses together to make up for a missed dose

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the inhaler device and capsules away from children
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
• Check the expiry date and discard any unused or expired medicine safely

Tiotropium 18mcg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dry mouth
• Throat irritation
• Headache
• Constipation

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Difficulty passing urine
• Fast heartbeat (palpitations)
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Cough or hoarseness of voice

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden worsening of breathlessness or wheezing right after using the inhaler
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, or skin rash suggesting an allergic reaction
• Eye pain, redness or seeing halos around lights (possible sign of angle-closure glaucoma)
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Inability to urinate

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Tiotropium 18mcg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to tiotropium, atropine-like medicines, or any ingredient in the inhaler
• Have been advised against using anticholinergic inhalers by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have glaucoma or eye problems
• Have an enlarged prostate or difficulty passing urine
• Have kidney disease
• Have heart problems, including irregular heartbeat
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anticholinergic medicines (used for stomach, bladder or Parkinson's disease) as combined use may increase side effects
• Other inhaled bronchodilators, unless prescribed together by your doctor
• Any new prescription or over-the-counter medicine — always inform your doctor or pharmacist

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can this inhaler be used for sudden breathlessness?

No, it is a maintenance medicine and does not act fast enough for sudden symptoms; use a rescue inhaler as advised for emergencies.

How long does it take to work?

It starts working within hours but full benefit for COPD symptoms is usually seen after regular daily use over some weeks.

Can I stop it once I feel better?

• No, stopping suddenly can worsen your breathing condition; continue as prescribed and consult your doctor before making any changes.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.