Stiolto ^*

Stiolto Respimat is a prescription maintenance inhaler used once daily for the long-term treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps manage symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing associated with chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Stiolto is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for sudden breathing problems. Its goal is to improve lung function and quality of life.

Stiolto begins to work within about 5 minutes of inhalation to help open up the airways. While some improvement in breathing may be felt quickly, its main benefit comes from consistent daily use. The full effect of Stiolto Respimat as a maintenance therapy builds over time. It provides a steady, 24-hour improvement in lung function to help control symptoms throughout the day and night.

Stiolto is not a steroid. It is a combination of two different types of bronchodilators: tiotropium and olodaterol. Tiotropium is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), and olodaterol is a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA). These medicines work by relaxing the muscles around the airways in the lungs. This action helps to keep the airways open, making it easier to breathe.

Stiolto should not be used for a sudden breathing attack, as it is a long-term maintenance medication. It does not work quickly enough to relieve acute symptoms. For sudden breathing problems, you should use a short-acting rescue inhaler as prescribed by your doctor. Always have your rescue inhaler with you. If your breathing problems worsen, contact your doctor immediately.

The standard dosage for Stiolto Respimat is two puffs inhaled once a day, every day. It is important to take the doses at the same time each day to maintain an even level of medication in your system. You should not take more than the prescribed two puffs within a 24-hour period. Always follow your doctor's instructions for the correct dosage and administration.

If you miss a dose of Stiolto, you should take it as soon as you remember on that same day. However, do not take more than one dose (two puffs) in 24 hours. Simply take your next scheduled dose at your regular time the following day. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

Stiolto can be used with other inhalers, but you must tell your doctor about all the medications you use. It is especially important not to use Stiolto with other medicines that contain a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA) or a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA). Your doctor will guide you on how to safely use it with a rescue inhaler or other prescribed respiratory medicines.

Your Stiolto Respimat inhaler should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Do not freeze the inhaler. Keep the cap closed when not in use to keep the mouthpiece clean. Once the cartridge is inserted into the inhaler, it should be discarded three months after that date, even if there is still medication inside it.

Stiolto is not commonly associated with weight gain. Clinical studies for Stiolto Respimat have not listed weight gain as a typical side effect. While some other medications for respiratory conditions, like oral corticosteroids, can cause weight gain, this is not a known effect of Stiolto's active ingredients. If you experience unexpected weight changes, you should discuss them with your doctor to identify the cause.

Drinking alcohol in moderation is generally not expected to interact with Stiolto. However, excessive alcohol use can sometimes worsen medical conditions or increase the risk of side effects from medications. Alcohol can also cause dehydration, which may lead to a dry mouth—a possible side effect of Stiolto. It is always best to discuss your alcohol consumption with your doctor before starting any new treatment.

Using Stiolto during pregnancy or while breastfeeding should be discussed with your doctor. It is not known if Stiolto will harm an unborn baby or if it passes into breast milk. Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits of using the medication for your COPD against any potential risks to the baby. You should only use Stiolto if clearly needed and prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Stiolto Respimat contains two active ingredients that work together to treat COPD. The first is tiotropium bromide, which is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA). The second is olodaterol hydrochloride, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA). These two bronchodilators help relax the airway muscles in different ways, leading to improved breathing that lasts for 24 hours with a single daily dose.

Your Stiolto Respimat inhaler has a dose indicator that shows approximately how many puffs are left. When the indicator enters the red zone of the scale, it means there is roughly enough medicine for seven days. This is your signal to get a refill. The inhaler will lock automatically and cannot be used anymore once all 60 puffs (or 30 doses) have been administered.