Tiotropium
Spiriva (tiotropium) is a long-acting anticholinergic bronchodilator used as maintenance therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. It is inhaled daily to help keep airways open and make breathing easier by relaxing the smooth muscles around the bronchial tubes.
Spiriva is an inhaled maintenance medication that relaxes airway muscles to improve breathing in people with COPD or asthma.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 274535
- Generic
- Spiriva
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Spiriva is indicated for the long-term maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with COPD (including chronic bronchitis and emphysema) and as add-on therapy for asthma in patients who remain symptomatic on other controller medications.
Spiriva is a muscarinic antagonist that blocks acetylcholine receptors (M3) in the smooth muscle of the airways. By preventing acetylcholine from binding to these receptors, it inhibits bronchoconstriction, allowing the airways to remain dilated and improving airflow.
Spiriva is a maintenance medication and should not be used for immediate relief of acute breathing problems. It is typically taken once daily via the HandiHaler or Respimat inhaler. Common side effects may include dry mouth, throat irritation, and cough. Patients should inform their doctor about any history of glaucoma, urinary problems, or kidney disease before starting treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy