tiotropium bromide at a glance
Medicine class
Long-acting antimuscarinic bronchodilator, also called an anticholinergic.
Licensed role
Maintenance bronchodilation to relieve COPD symptoms in adults.
Selected device
Dry-powder capsules used only with the Zonda inhaler; do not swallow them.
Not for emergencies
It does not replace a fast-acting reliever inhaler during sudden breathing difficulty.
What is tiotropium bromide used for?
The selected Braltus product is licensed for:
Maintenance bronchodilator treatment to relieve COPD symptoms in adults.
How does tiotropium bromide work?
Tiotropium blocks muscarinic receptors in airway muscle, reducing airway tightening and allowing the airways to remain more open. Its slow release from airway receptors produces prolonged bronchodilation.
tiotropium bromide preparations and strengths
Inhaled preparation
Route: Inhaled
Strengths: 10 micrograms
Capsule
Route: Oral
Strengths: 18 micrograms
How to take tiotropium bromide
Follow the product leaflet and ask a healthcare professional to check your inhaler technique. Food does not affect inhaler use.
Remove a capsule from its container immediately before use and place it in the Zonda inhaler chamber, not the mouthpiece.
Pierce the capsule using the device, breathe out away from the mouthpiece, then inhale slowly and deeply through it.
Complete the leaflet's inhalation procedure, then discard the empty capsule.
Do not swallow the capsule, store it inside the inhaler, blow into the device or allow powder to enter your eyes.
Clean the mouthpiece with a dry cloth or tissue if needed.
tiotropium bromide side effects
Common or expected effects
- Dry mouth
Get urgent medical advice
- Immediate worsening of wheeze or breathlessness after inhalation
- Severe allergic reaction, including facial or throat swelling
- Painful red eye, blurred vision or halos around lights
- Difficulty or inability to pass urine
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Severe constipation, abdominal swelling or vomiting suggesting bowel obstruction
tiotropium bromide in pregnancy
NHS patient guidance says inhaled tiotropium can be used during pregnancy because maintaining breathing control is important. Braltus product information advises precautionary avoidance because human pregnancy data are very limited. Anyone pregnant or planning pregnancy should have treatment reviewed by the prescriber rather than stopping without advice.
tiotropium bromide while breastfeeding
NHS guidance considers inhaled tiotropium acceptable while breastfeeding because infant exposure is expected to be very small. Braltus product information recommends an individual decision balancing breastfeeding benefits with the mother's need for treatment. Discuss the product choice with the prescriber.
tiotropium bromide interactions
Clinically important interactions are uncommon, but additive antimuscarinic effects are a concern.
Other anticholinergic medicines, including ipratropium or oxitropium
Combined use has not been adequately studied and is not recommended because anticholinergic adverse effects may increase.
Herbal remedies and supplements
Evidence is insufficient; check with a pharmacist or prescriber before using them.
Common questions about tiotropium bromide
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is tiotropium bromide a steroid inhaler?
No. It is a long-acting antimuscarinic bronchodilator that relaxes airway muscle.
Can tiotropium bromide treat a sudden COPD attack?
No. It is maintenance treatment and does not replace a fast-acting reliever inhaler.
Should tiotropium bromide capsules be swallowed?
No. Braltus capsules are placed in the Zonda device so their powder can be inhaled.
Can Braltus capsules be used in another inhaler?
No. They are designed only for the Zonda inhaler.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.