Spiriva: anyone switched from Handihaler to Respimat?
I’ve been taking spiriva via the handihaler for many years and my copd has held at mild-moderate during this time.
I just switched my insurance and they don’t cover the handihaler only the respimat.
I could ask my MD to file an appeal but ABAICT, it’s the same ingredient just a different delivery system.
Any reminiscence of issues when switching would be appreciated.
It is the same medication, instead of the handiheld powder,respimat is a mist.
thx for the reply. When I was on a different inhaler with steroids many years ago, I too had thrush once. I found a vigorous rinsing with water after using the inhaler usually kept it at bay. thx. I’m getting used to the respimat. I had infrequent trouble with the handihaler and speaking with the parent company was a waste of time.
Hi. Great question. And I think I can provide you with a good response for your question. I am a respiratory therapist for our local hospital. About five years ago our hospital system switched from offering the spiriva handihaler over to the spiriva respimat. Initially I didn't care for the new inhaler mainly because it was new to me. Although after watching a few videos and learning proper technique I find that it is a very nice inhaler. As a bonus, rather than inhaling a dry powder with the handihaler you are inhaling a nice soft mist with the respimat. I have learned that this "soft mist" is easier to inhale and the theory is that it also gets deeper into your lungs. If you do decide to make the switch it may be a great idea to talk to your pharmacist (or watch an online video) about how to set up and use the inhaler. What do you think? John. copd.net community moderator In my case I watched patients switch. And of course I would interview them to see what they thought of the change. John. copd.net community moderator thx for clarifying.
Interesting, thx.
I'm happy to hear your getting use to respimat. Wishing you a peaceful day!
