Republished September 9, 2024
There are some medicines used to treat breathing problems that come as powder-filled capsules. The powder inside is meant to be inhaled into the lungs using a special device. The powder is ineffective if the capsule is swallowed intact.
Spiriva (tiotropium bromide) is an example of a powder-filled capsule that looks like those that can be swallowed. It is a medicine that is used to treat a lung condition called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Spriva capsules are packaged in blister cards and comes with an inhaler called the "HandiHaler." A capsule has to be removed from the blister card and inserted into the HandiHaler. When you close the device, the capsule is punctured so that the medicine can be inhaled through the mouthpiece and into the lungs.
We have received numerous reports of people who have mistakenly swallowed the Spiriva capsules. We have even heard of nurses accidentally giving the capsules to hospitalized patients to swallow. Swallowing the capsules will not treat the disease.
To prevent similar errors, ask to speak to your pharmacist when picking up your prescription. Ask the pharmacist to explain how to use the device. And finally, make sure you read the drug information pamphlet that comes with your medicine.
You can learn more about how to use the Spiriva HandiHaler by clicking here.
