How and when to use tiotropium inhalers - Brand names: Braltus, Spiriva, Spiriva Respimat

Always follow the instructions from your doctor, or your asthma or respiratory nurse.

Dosage

The usual dose of tiotropium is 1 or 2 puffs, taken once a day. Use it at the same time each day.

It's important to use your tiotropium inhaler regularly to manage your condition. Keep using it, even if you do not have any symptoms.

You'll usually stay on the same dose. If the brand of tiotropium inhaler you use changes, the number of puffs you need to take may change. You'll still only use the inhaler once a day.

How to use it

There are different types of tiotropium inhaler.

Before using your inhaler, read the information leaflet that came with it. This leaflet contains instructions and diagrams to show you how to use the inhaler, how to keep it clean, and how long to use it before getting a replacement.

It's very important to use your inhaler properly. This is so you get the right amount of tiotropium into your lungs and the most benefit from your medicine.

After using your inhaler, always put the lid back on to keep it clean.

Unlike steroid inhalers, after using your tiotropium inhaler you do not need to rinse your mouth with water.

Inhalers with capsules

Some tiotropium inhalers use capsules that contain the medicine in a powder. Brands include:

• Braltus capsules, used with the Zonda device
• Spiriva capsules, used with the HandiHaler device

Put a new capsule into the device each time you use it.

The inhaler has a button that makes a hole in the capsule. You then breathe in the powder from the capsule through the mouthpiece on the inhaler.

Inhale from the device twice to make sure that you've inhaled all of the medicine and the capsule is empty.

Inhalers with cartridges

Tiotropium inhalers that use cartridges include:

• Spiolto Respimat
• Spiriva Respimat
• Yanimo Respimat

The cartridge contains several doses, so you do not need to replace it each time you use your inhaler.

Check your inhaler technique

To get the most from your inhaler, it's important to have your technique checked regularly.

If you're not sure how to use your inhaler, or your technique has not been checked for a year, ask your doctor, nurse or a pharmacist to watch you use it.

How long to use it for

You'll usually use your tiotropium inhaler for a long time, sometimes many years. It helps prevent your asthma or COPD getting worse.

It's important to keep using your inhaler even if you feel better.

If you forget to use it

If you forget a dose, use your inhaler as soon as you remember, unless you do not remember until the next day. In this case, skip the missed dose and have your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take 2 doses to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

If you use too much

Using too much tiotropium can cause a dry mouth, a faster heartbeat or blurred vision.