Tiotrop

Tiotropium is a long-acting anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) medicine. It binds fairly evenly to all subtypes of muscarinic receptors, from M1 to M5, but its main effect in the airways comes from blocking M3-receptors on the smooth muscle that lines them, which is what allows the airways to widen (bronchodilation). Studies using both human and animal receptors, along with isolated organ tissue, have confirmed that it blocks these receptors in a competitive, reversible way. In laboratory and animal research, it prevented methacholine-induced airway narrowing in a dose-dependent manner, with the effect lasting more than 24 hours. When inhaled, Tiotropium's bronchodilating action occurs mainly at the site where it is deposited in the airways, rather than through effects elsewhere in the body.

Pregnancy Category C. No adequate, well-controlled studies have looked at Tiotropium's use in pregnant women, so it should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the possible risk to the fetus. Its safety and effectiveness during labor and delivery have not been studied either.

Taking a high dose of Tiotrop can cause anticholinergic signs and symptoms. That said, 6 healthy volunteers who inhaled a single dose of up to 282 mcg of Tiotrop had no systemic anticholinergic adverse effects. In another study, 12 healthy volunteers inhaled 141 mcg of Tiotrop once daily for several days, and they developed bilateral conjunctivitis and dry mouth.

Tiotropium Dry Powder Inhaler capsules are not for swallowing, so don't take them by mouth. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat, and store them below 30°C. Keep the medicine where children can't reach it.