Spiriva®

1. Wipe or rinse out the mouth.
2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
3. Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately for additional instructions.

If someone gets the mist from Spiriva Respimat® in the eye, there can be immediate burning and stinging, which requires prompt first aid to avoid an eye injury.

1. Start rinsing eye(s) with lukewarm water.
2. Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further recommendations.

Quick Facts about Spiriva®:

Spiriva® is the brand name of a medication called tiotropium bromide. This medication is used to treat asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD). It comes in two forms, both are inhaled into the lungs but differently. 

Spiriva Handihaler® & Swallowing Spiriva® Capsule

Spiriva Handihaler® has capsules that a patient inserts into a handheld device where the capsule is pierced and the patient inhales the powder. The capsule looks like a pill but they are not for swallowing. 

The poison center often receives calls from people who accidentally swallow the Spiriva® capsule along with their other medications by mistake. The medication is absorbed very well in the lungs when inhaled, but it is poorly absorbed in the stomach when someone accidentally takes it by mouth. There are usually no symptoms or if any, they are minor symptoms such as:

• a dry mouth, 
• minor stomach upset
• restless feeling.  

Bottom line: this is not harmful; it is essentially a wasted dose.  

Spiriva Respimat®

Spiriva Respimat® has the same medication found in the Spiriva Handihaler®, but it delivers it from a cartridge as a soft mist. There are no capsules in this formulation, so we receive fewer calls about this product. If someone accidentally sprays the mist into the eyes, it may cause burning, blurred vision, and temporary pupil enlargement.

What to do if there is an exposure?

If you find someone has accidentally swallowed a Spiriva® capsule, do not panic. Have some water to drink and if problems start or you have questions, call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day for poisoning emergencies and questions.