Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Spiriva as follows:
- Spiriva use can result in dry eyes with reduced tear production, irritation and redness of eyes, and blurred vision. Spiriva use can also result in increase in the intraocular pressure, leading to worsening of glaucoma in individuals with history. Spiriva must be used with extra caution in individuals with history of glaucoma, with close watch maintained on disturbance with vision, to prevent exacerbation of glaucoma and consequent loss of vision.
- Spiriva use should normally help with relaxation of the airways and improve the ease of breathing. But, use of Spiriva occasionally can paradoxically result in narrowing of airways, exacerbation of dyspnea and shortness of breath, and increased effort of breathing. This side-effect of Spiriva intake can lead to complications in individuals with history of asthma, COPD, and other breathing disorders, and so, must be administered with caution, with close watch maintained for exacerbation of SOB and dyspneic episodes.
