What It Is
Tiotropium belongs to a class of medicines called long-acting anticholinergics, or long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs). It is used as an inhaler, typically once a day.
What It's Used For
Tiotropium is generally used for long-term treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), helping reduce breathlessness and the number of flare-ups. It is also used as an add-on treatment in some people with asthma whose symptoms are not controlled by other medicines. It is not used for sudden symptoms.
How It Works
Tiotropium blocks muscarinic receptors in the airway muscles, preventing them from tightening. It separates from the receptors very slowly, which is why its effect lasts about 24 hours and a single daily dose is enough.
History and Regulatory Status
Tiotropium was developed in the 1990s and came into medical use in the early 2000s. It is a prescription medicine, available under several brand names and as generics in many countries. It is also included in some combination inhalers alongside long-acting beta-2 agonists.