Spiriva Respimat for COPD and Asthma: How It Works and How to Save from Canada

Spiriva Respimat for COPD and Asthma: How It Works and How to Save from Canada

If you’re managing COPD or asthma, you’ve likely heard of Spiriva Respimat. This long-acting inhaler is commonly prescribed to help control breathing symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and improve quality of life. But with inhaler prices in the U.S. continuing to rise, many patients are looking to Canadian sources to make their Spiriva more affordable.

Here’s what you need to know about how Spiriva Respimat works, how it compares to other inhalers, and how Americans can save by ordering through a Canadian prescription referral service.

What Is Spiriva Respimat?

Spiriva Respimat is an inhaled bronchodilator used for the long-term treatment of:

  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema
  • Asthma (for patients aged 6 and older, in combination with other medications)

It contains tiotropium bromide, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) that works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.

Unlike rescue inhalers, Spiriva is not used to relieve sudden breathing problems. It’s a maintenance inhaler meant to be used once daily, typically at the same time each day.

Spiriva Respimat vs Spiriva HandiHaler

There are two versions of Spiriva available:

  • Spiriva Respimat: A soft mist inhaler that delivers tiotropium without the need for capsules or deep inhalation
  • Spiriva HandiHaler: A dry powder inhaler that requires patients to insert capsules and inhale deeply

The Respimat version is often preferred for:

  • Older adults or patients with limited hand strength
  • Patients who struggle to use dry powder inhalers effectively
  • Children (when prescribed for asthma)

Spiriva Respimat also provides a fine mist, which may feel gentler and easier to inhale compared to the dry powder used in the HandiHaler.

How Spiriva Helps with COPD and Asthma

For people living with COPD or moderate-to-severe asthma, Spiriva offers several important benefits:

  • Helps open airways and reduce inflammation
  • Makes it easier to breathe over time
  • Reduces the risk of flare-ups and hospital visits
  • Improves exercise tolerance and daily function

It’s not a quick fix, but consistent daily use helps prevent symptoms from worsening and improves long-term control.

Is Spiriva Available as a Generic?

Yes. In Canada, tiotropium bromide is available as a generic alternative to Spiriva Handihaler. Generic versions may be significantly cheaper while offering the same therapeutic effect.

U.S. patients can save money by ordering generic tiotropium from a Canadian pharmacy through a prescription referral service like Over the Border Meds.

How to Use Spiriva Respimat

Using the Respimat device takes a bit of practice but is straightforward once mastered:

1. Insert the cartridge into the inhaler

2. Prime the device (if it’s a new cartridge)

3. Turn the base to load the dose

4. Press the button while inhaling the mist slowly and deeply

5. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly

Most prescriptions call for two inhalations once daily. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions, and if you’re unsure how to use your Spiriva Respimat properly, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

How Much Does Spiriva Cost in the U.S. vs Canada?

The retail price for Spiriva Respimat in the U.S. can range from $450 to $550 for one inhaler, depending on the pharmacy and insurance coverage. Without insurance, this can be a major burden for patients who need it every month.

In contrast, the same medication—brand or generic—can cost significantly less in Canada. Many Americans report paying less than half the U.S. cost by ordering from a licensed Canadian pharmacy.

How to Order Spiriva from Canada

You can order Spiriva Respimat (or generic tiotropium) from Canada with a valid U.S. prescription. The process is simple:

1. Ask your doctor for a written prescription for Spiriva or tiotropium

2. Visit Over the Border Meds and upload your prescription

3. Place your order online or by phone

4. The medication is shipped directly to your home in the U.S.

Shipping typically takes 5 to 10 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Spiriva a steroid?
No. Spiriva contains tiotropium, which is a long-acting bronchodilator, not a corticosteroid.

Can Spiriva be used with other inhalers?
Yes. Spiriva is often used alongside other inhalers such as Symbicort, Trelegy, or rescue inhalers, depending on your treatment plan.

Is there a cheaper alternative to Spiriva Respimat?
Yes. In Canada, generic versions of tiotropium may be available at a lower price. Ordering from Canada is one of the best ways to save if you are paying out of pocket.

How long does it take Spiriva to start working?
While you may notice easier breathing within a few hours, full benefits often take several days to become noticeable with regular use.

Can I get Spiriva without insurance?
Yes. If your insurance doesn’t cover Spiriva or you’re uninsured, you can still order from Canada with a valid U.S. prescription.

Final Thoughts

Spiriva Respimat is a highly effective inhaler for managing COPD and asthma, but the cost can be a challenge—especially in the U.S. Ordering your medication from Canada through a prescription referral service can help you access the same trusted treatment at a much lower price.

Whether you’re looking for the brand-name inhaler or the generic version of tiotropium, services like Over the Border Meds can help you stay on track with your treatment while saving money.

To get started, upload your prescription at Over the Border Meds today.