braltus inhaker

[Caradomben]

hi I have just been prescribed a Braltus inhaler of tiotropium bromide for COPD . I am worried about side effects as I have paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and am worried it may trigger an attack of AF. Has anyone any experience of using this medication . Thank you

[Bingofox007]

hi, I don’t take it but have had dealings with it. It works on cholinergic nerve pathways to open airways rather than beta receptors. The beta agonists, most commonly the blue inhaler are focused on the beta receptors in the lungs but because of gaseous exchange some beta receptors in the heart, different kind, can pick it up and give temporary palpitations, not everybody gets that side effect. As it works differently it’s worth giving it a go as it’s an amazing drug for keeping airways open and helping with shortness of breath. I hope that has helped. Being able to take long deep breaths can help settle the heart at times, I do this when I get a few ectopic in a row so being able to take those deep breaths may be easier with better lung expansion help from brailtus. Take care 🦊

[Whitechinchilla]

Hi there

I had been taking Braltus for 3 years when I developed PAF.

IMHO I thought it was a great inhaler.

Reactions vary so try it and see!

If you PAF starts then take your P.I.P.

Good luck

[frazeej]

I have been using Spireva (brand name for tiotropium bromide) for over a year, and have not noticed any side effects or as a trigger for my PAF. I can't say if it has had any effect on my COPD, as the COPD symptoms are difficult to tease out from the beta blocker side effects. I've just switched to "Incruse Ellipta", as it is cheaper on my drug plan. It is umeclidinium, also a muscarinic M3 blocker, the same as Spireva, "allegedly" more effective than Spireva with a lower side effect profile. We'll see.

[Caradomben in reply to frazeej]

thank you for your reply. I like you am not sure if the side effects of beta blocker could my contributing to my symptoms and not COPD