Spiriva has chemical name Tiotropium. It contains the chemical Tiotropium Bromide Monohydrate. Tiotropium Bromide Monohydrate is used as a long-acting bronchodilator for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This chemical opens the airways by blocking action of the brain messenger chemical acetylcholine. Spiriva is a blessing for patients who have difficulty breathing. The active ingredient in Spiriva is tiotropium bromide 18mcg intended for oral inhalation using the Handihaler Device. The capsule or the dry powder is not for oral consumption, but for inhalation.

Spiriva is known to prevent attacks. It is advised to use Spiriva inhaler properly, so that the medication gets into the lungs. Spiriva is a maintenance bronchodilator. It keeps narrowed airways open.  Patients using Spiriva have shown remarkable improvement in there breathing. Spiriva capsules are light green hard capsules, containing a white or yellowish white powder. Spiriva has shelf life of one and a half year.  However, the typical shelf life of an opened Spiriva from capsule is 9 days.

Careful handling of Spiriva is necessary. It is advisable to clean the HandiHaler once a month. Rinse the complete Spiriva inhaler with warm water, and to dry the inhaler properly. It takes 24 hours for it to dry completely.