Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Spiriva as follows:
General allergic reactions
- Spiriva use can result in general allergic reactions, such as, skin rashes, hives, and itching.
- Some patients can present with symptoms of severe allergic and anaphylactic response with Spiriva, such as, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, throat, and tongue, with consequent difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical help for such findings, especially with difficulty breathing, for any appropriate measures to be considered.
Gastrointestinal side-effects
- Inhibition of acetylcholine action in the body, secondary to Spiriva use, can result in dry mouth, reduced acid secretion in the stomach, indigestion, decreased bowel activity, bloating, and constipation. Sucking on a sugar free hard candy can help with symptomatic relief of dry mouth. Proper hydration measures and compliance with daily fluid intake recommendations can help with relief from constipation.
