[Experimental inhalation therapy with nebulized tiotropium in COPD patients unable to use the Handihaler].

Background: We report the efficacy and safety of experimentally nebulized tiotropium use. We identified 19 elderly very severe COPD (GOLD stage IV) inpatients unable to use tiotropium in the Handihaler by themselves from January 2008 through May 2009. The contents of an 18 microg capsule of tiotropium were dissolved in 5 ml saline and nebulized via a nebulizer.