Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Tiotropium Respimat as follows:
- Tiotropium use can result in relaxation of smooth muscle of bladder and contraction of urinary sphincter, which leads to increased urinary retention and increased difficulty passing urine. Retention of urine in the bladder can increase the chances for urinary tract infection, especially in senior citizens and individuals with history of multiple UTIs. Individuals can present with fever, chills, rigors, burning sensation of the urethra, pain during act of urination, and foul smell of urine. Report to your physician regarding any of these symptoms for any change in plan of care to be considered.
- Tiotropium is minimally metabolized in the liver and a significant portion of the drug administered is excreted unchanged in urine. Individuals with compromised renal function cannot excrete the medication normally, which allows the medication to stay in blood circulation for longer time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. So, tiotropium must be used with caution in individuals with compromised renal function, with possible dose adjustments, periodical monitoring for renal functions, and close watch for development of any dangerous side-effects and toxicity symptoms with the medication. Observe compliance with periodical labs ordered for renal function evaluation, while taking tiotropium.
