[Tiotropium: a new therapeutic option in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]

Abstract

Tiotropium is a long-acting anticholinergic bronchodilator, inhaled only once a day, which produces relaxation of airway smooth muscle through antagonism of acetylcholine at M3-muscarinic receptors. Its duration of action is at least 24 h with once daily administration of tiotropium. Several studies have shown its efficacy and its good tolerance in the treatment of patients who are suffering from moderate to very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Tiotropium improves spirometric measurements and quality of life, and reduces dyspnea and exacerbation rate in COPD patients.