If you have COPD, which includes emphysema or chronic bronchitis, your healthcare provider may prescribe Spiriva. Spiriva is a long-term, once-daily prescription maintenance treatment for COPD. As a bronchodilator, it helps to control symptoms of COPD by relaxing your airways and keeping them open. It can also reduce the likelihood of COPD flare-ups or exacerbations.
Spiriva comes in capsule format and can be taken using the HandiHaler inhalation device or the Respimat.
This information is meant to help you use your HandiHaler. If you require more information about the medication itself, please speak to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Using your HandiHaler
Remove a capsule from the blister package of medicine. Take the capsule out of the package right before you're going to use it.
Flip off the lid of the HandiHaler and open the mouthpiece.
Put the capsule in the hole.
Flip the mouthpiece closed. Make sure you hear a click, so you know it's closed properly.
Hold the HandiHaler upright with the mouthpiece facing up.
Sit up with your back straight.
Press the big button on the side of the HandiHaler. This pokes a hole in the capsule to let the medicine out.
Exhale: blow out all your air.
Seal your lips around the HandiHaler mouthpiece.
Breathe in slowly and deeply from the mouthpiece until your lungs are full.
As you're breathing in, you should notice that the HandiHaler is vibrating. This is supposed to happen. It shows that you're taking your medication properly.
Take the device out of your mouth and hold your breath for as long as you can (10 seconds or longer, if you can).
Breathe out normally.
Seal your lips around the device and take another deep breath from the HandiHaler to make sure you get all the medicine.
Take the HandiHaler out of your mouth and hold your breath for as long as you can (10 seconds or longer, if you can).
