Spiriva is a maintenance inhaler that helps people deal with the symptoms of COPD by reducing the risk of COPD flare-ups, by controlling symptoms related to COPD, and by improving lung and airway function by dilating the passageways of the lungs and throat. This is not a rescue inhaler and cannot save your life in the event of a COPD flare up; you’ll need an additional rescue inhaler to deal with severe symptoms. Spiriva can help you breathe better by taking two puffs once daily; however, since COPD is a chronic condition, the only thing that will stop the progression of COPD is smoking cessation.
What is COPD?
COPD makes it harder for you to breathe. The two categories for COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The main cause of COPD has traditionally been cigarette smoking, although air pollution, chemical fumes, and dust can also cause this disease as well. COPD is characterized by chest tightness, wheezing, coughs that produce a large amount of mucus, and shortness of breath. There is no cure, so your best bet is to immediately quit smoking and consult your doctor about what medication to choose. Diagnosing COPD can be done with imaging test, blood tests, and lung function tests.
Spiriva Handihaler Side Effects
Spiriva Handihaler can come with a risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor If you experience any of the following:
- Eye pain, seeing halos, blurred vision or dizziness.
- In some cases, Spiriva has been known to cause bronchospasm. If this occurs, immediately stop using Spiriva and use your rescue inhaler.
- Use caution when operating heavy machinery and automobiles, as dizziness and blurred vision are common side effects of Spiriva.
- This medication can cause new or worsened urinary retention. If you have difficulty passing urine and experience pain when urinating, contact your doctor.
- Common side effects: cough, sinus infection, sore throat, dry mouth, chest pain, urinary tract infection, indigestion, runny nose, increased heart rate, constipation.
- Allergic reactions that are accompanied by hives, itching, rashes, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat that may make it difficult to swallow or breathe.
Do not swallow the capsule that comes with the inhaler. You should insert it into the machine and inhale it that way. Do not spray Spiriva near or into your eyes, as it can cause blurry vision and pupil dilation.
Spiriva Handihaler Cost
Spiriva is an expensive medication that costs around $430. This price includes the manufacturer’s coupon. This can add up to over $5,000 a year if you have been diagnosed with COPD, which is simply not affordable with some families that have low income. This is why the Rx Helper was founded. We help people get Spiriva for a fraction of that price by using programs called prescription assistance programs. If you are underinsured or uninsured and struggling to pay for the cost of your prescriptions, we are here to help. We can help you get Spiriva for little to no money by qualifying patients for prescription assistance programs. If you are in need of Spiriva but cannot afford the prescription, contact us today to find out if you qualify.
