Olodaterol is a daily prescription medication for adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is a long-term maintenance treatment designed to manage COPD symptoms and make breathing easier over time. This medication is not intended for immediate relief of sudden breathing problems. The primary brand name for olodaterol is Striverdi Respimat.
Medical Use and Mechanism of Action
Olodaterol is a maintenance bronchodilator treatment for airflow obstruction in individuals with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It functions as a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA) by stimulating specific receptors, known as beta2-adrenergic receptors, on the smooth muscle cells that line the airways of the lungs.
When olodaterol binds to these receptors, it causes the airway muscles to relax. This process widens the airways, reducing obstruction and allowing air to flow more freely in and out of the lungs. This action helps alleviate common COPD symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.
The effects of olodaterol last for approximately 24 hours, allowing for a once-daily dosing schedule. As a maintenance therapy, it is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for sudden breathing difficulty, as its onset of action is not rapid enough for emergencies.
Proper Administration and Dosage
The standard dosage is two puffs from the Striverdi Respimat inhaler, taken once every 24 hours. Administer the dose at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in the body. Do not take more than two puffs within a 24-hour period.
The Respimat device uses a “Turn, Open, Press” (TOP) method. First, turn the clear base of the inhaler in the direction of the arrows until it clicks. Next, open the cap until it snaps fully open. After breathing out fully, close your lips around the mouthpiece and press the dose-release button while taking a slow, deep breath.
Proper inhalation technique ensures the medication is delivered to the lungs. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and do not take a double dose.
Potential Side Effects and Drug Interactions
Common side effects of olodaterol are often mild and can include a runny nose (nasopharyngitis), cough, and dizziness. These reactions may not require medical intervention but should be monitored.
Serious side effects require immediate medical attention. Seek medical help right away if you experience any of the following:
- Worsening breathing or wheezing immediately after use (paradoxical bronchospasm)
- Chest pain
- A rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Tremors or nervousness
Olodaterol can interact with other medications, which may increase the risk of adverse effects. Inform your doctor if you take any of the following:
- Beta-blockers, as they can interfere with olodaterol’s effectiveness
- Other long-acting beta2-agonists (LABAs), which can lead to an overdose
- Diuretics
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or tricyclic antidepressants
Important Patient Considerations
Before beginning treatment, discuss your full medical history with a healthcare provider, as certain pre-existing conditions require special monitoring. Be sure to mention if you have a history of:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Seizure disorders
- Thyroid problems
- Diabetes
Olodaterol is not approved for use in children. You should also inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. This allows your provider to weigh the benefits against potential risks to the infant.
Olodaterol is often prescribed as part of a broader COPD treatment plan with other inhaled medications for better symptom control. For instance, it is combined with tiotropium, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), in a single inhaler called Stiolto Respimat. This combination provides more comprehensive bronchodilation by targeting different pathways of airway constriction.