Patients are hearing that Spiriva (tiotropium) might increase the risk of stroke

April 2008

Patients are hearing that Spiriva (tiotropium) might increase the risk of stroke.

A recent analysis shows a slightly higher risk of stroke in patients using Spiriva...or about 2 more cases per 1000 patients per year.

This is a surprise. So far there's no reason to suspect a link between inhaled anticholinergics and stroke.

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Table of Contents

new requirements for tamper-resistant Rxs
Cardiology growing evidence that calcium channel blockers may cause eczema and other skin problems
Cardiology Clopidogrel (Plavix) will compete with prasugrel (Effient)
Osteoporosis the importance of identifying patients at risk for a fracture due to osteoporosis
Respiratory & Allergy Patients are hearing that Spiriva (tiotropium) might increase the risk of stroke
Respiratory & Allergy Many patients have trouble using dry powder inhalers
Women's Health Evamist is the first estradiol SPRAY for menopausal symptoms
Pediatrics Can kids overdose on amoxicillin
Psychiatry whether antidepressants are effective
Cholesterol Simcor, a new combination of simvastatin and Niaspan (extended-release niacin)
Cholesterol You'll also soon hear about Cordaptive
Cholesterol Do statins cause cognitive impairment
Pregnancy which antihypertensives are safe to use during pregnancy
Storage & Disposal Reports of trace amounts of pharmaceuticals in our water supply are getting a lot of press