Respy 18mcg Inhaler

Tiotropium is a long-acting bronchodilator (an anticholinergic). It relaxes the muscles around the airways so they stay open, making breathing easier. It is not a steroid.

It is used as a regular preventer inhaler to stop symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and breathlessness in:

• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• asthma, in some people

It does not work straight away, so it cannot be used to treat a sudden attack. Keep your reliever inhaler for that.

Use it as your doctor, nurse or pharmacist tells you, at the same time every day, even when you feel well. Read the instructions for your inhaler type.

• Capsule inhalers: put a new capsule in the device each time and breathe in from it twice to empty it. Never swallow the capsules.
• Cartridge (soft mist) inhalers: the cartridge holds many doses.
• Keep the powder or mist away from your eyes.
• You do not need to rinse your mouth afterwards.
• If you miss a dose, use it when you remember, unless it is already the next day. Never take two doses together.
• Do not stop using it without talking to your doctor.

Ask to have your inhaler technique checked regularly.

The most common side effect is a dry mouth. Sugar-free gum or sweets may help.

Contact a doctor straight away if you have:

• blurred vision, red or painful eyes, or rings around lights (possible glaucoma)
• difficulty peeing
• a fast heartbeat or palpitations
• trouble sleeping or difficulty swallowing

Get emergency help if your lips, mouth, tongue or throat swell, or you struggle to breathe.

Tell your doctor if your breathing does not improve after a week of use, or gets worse.

Check with your doctor before using it if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to tiotropium or any other medicine
• have glaucoma
• have prostate problems or difficulty peeing
• have kidney disease
• have had a heart attack in the last 6 months, or have an irregular heartbeat or heart failure

Check with a pharmacist before starting any new medicine, as some can add to its side effects.

Keep at room temperature away from heat and moisture, and out of the reach of children. Keep capsules in their blister pack until just before use and never store them inside the inhaler.

Pregnancy: it can be used in pregnancy. Keeping your breathing under control is important for you and your baby, so tell your doctor if you become pregnant.

Breastfeeding: it can be used as normal.

Driving: do not drive or cycle if your vision is blurred or you feel dizzy.

Alcohol: you can drink alcohol while using it.