I began my second month of using Spiriva Respirnat mist inhaler (tiotropium). Very expensive drug. I negotiated with the drug plan insurer to move it from their Medicare tier 4 to tier 3 to get the cost down. With my deductible, the 2 months have totaled about $800. Going forward now, it is a less monthly cost. But I am stopping this drug per below. Add this to my pile of drugs that caused really bad side effects, I guess I am sensitive.
I take the drug about 2 hours before bedtime. Maybe starting a couple of weeks ago, I noticed a dizziness disorientation when I rolled over at night sleeping. This happened as well when standing to get up in the night for the bathroom. A couple of days ago, when standing to get up in the morning, the disorientation was much more prominent. I contacted my pulmonary doctor about stopping the drug. He said stop for a night or two. If symptoms continued, go to my primary care doctor. It turns out the symptoms decreased so it seems clear it is the drug. So, another drug that I cannot use.
Anyone else experience this? I read the warning about this at the manufacturer's website. It seemed to surprise my doctor. Another pulmonary doctor said he never heard of this and said I was wrong - so I had him removed from my care list now.
The manufacturer says, "Spiriva Respimat (tiotropium) can cause side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and blurred vision. These effects may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. If you experience dizziness, it is advised to use caution and report these symptoms to your doctor.