{"id":629729,"date":"2024-09-10T17:15:29","date_gmt":"2024-09-10T21:15:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=629729"},"modified":"2025-12-11T16:48:24","modified_gmt":"2025-12-11T21:48:24","slug":"trelegy-vs-spiriva","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/trelegy-vs-spiriva\/","title":{"rendered":"Trelegy vs. Spiriva: Differences and similarities explained"},"content":{"rendered":"

Trelegy and Spiriva are two popular medications prescribed for <\/span>chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)<\/span><\/a>, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Trelegy and Spiriva work as maintenance treatments to control and prevent COPD symptoms such as shortness of breath, chronic cough, and wheezing. They need to be taken daily for maximum effectiveness. Although th\u2019re used for similar purposes, they differ in active ingredients, dosages, drug interactions, and more.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Trelegy vs. Spiriva: Key differences<\/span><\/h2>\n

Trelegy Ellipta is a combination <\/span>dry powder inhaler<\/span><\/a> that includes fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol. These ingredients work together as a corticosteroid, anticholinergic, and long-acting beta agonist (LABA), respectively. Together, they help reduce inflammation and relax the smooth muscles in the lungs to improve breathing. It\u2019s taken as one inhalation or puff once daily.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Spiriva contains tiotropium, an anticholinergic. It is available as <\/span>Spiriva Respimat<\/span><\/a> (soft mist inhaler) and <\/span>Spiriva HandiHaler<\/span><\/a> (dry powder inhaler). Tiotropium works by relaxing the airway muscles and helping keep them open. It\u2019s taken as two puffs once daily.<\/span><\/p>\n

`Trelegy is generally a more complete option since it combines three medications in one inhaler, which can be especially helpful for those needing more than one treatment to manage symptoms. Spiriva, on the other hand, focuses solely on bronchodilation or opening up the airways, making it a simpler option for those who don\u2019t need the added ingredients. The Spiriva HandiHaler is also available as a generic, which may be more accessible for some.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare Trelegy vs. Spiriva key differences<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

Difference<\/strong><\/td>\nTrelegy<\/b><\/td>\nSpiriva<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/b><\/td>\nInhaled corticosteroid\/anticholinergic\/long-acting beta agonist<\/span><\/td>\nAnticholinergic<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/b><\/td>\nBrand<\/span><\/td>\nBrand and generic available (for Spiriva HandiHaler)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the generic name?<\/b><\/td>\nFluticasone furoate\/umeclidinium\/vilanterol<\/span><\/td>\nTiotropium bromide<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/b><\/td>\nTrelegy Ellipta (inhalation powder)<\/span><\/td>\nSpiriva HandiHaler (inhalation powder)<\/span><\/p>\n

Spiriva Respimat (inhalation spray)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

What is the standard dosage?<\/b><\/td>\n1 inhalation by mouth once daily<\/span><\/td>\n2 inhalations by mouth once daily<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
How long is the typical treatment?<\/b><\/td>\nLong-term<\/span><\/td>\nLong-term<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/b><\/td>\nAdults<\/span><\/td>\nAdults<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Trelegy vs. Spiriva: Conditions treated<\/span><\/h2>\n

Trelegy Ellipta and Spiriva are both used to treat COPD. In addition to COPD, Trelegy is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the maintenance treatment of <\/span>asthma<\/span><\/a> in adults.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

On the other hand, the FDA-approved uses of Spiriva vary depending on the dosage form. For example, Spiriva HandiHaler is approved for the maintenance treatment of COPD in adults. While Spiriva Respimat is also approved for COPD in adults, it may be prescribed to treat asthma in adults and children 6 years and older.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Neither Trelegy nor Spiriva is used to relieve acute bronchospasm or sudden breathing problems. Instead, a short-acting <\/span>rescue inhaler<\/span><\/a> like Ventolin (albuterol) is recommended for the immediate relief of an acute COPD or asthma attack.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare Trelegy vs. Spiriva conditions treated<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

Condition<\/b><\/td>\nTrelegy<\/b><\/td>\nSpiriva<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
COPD<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes (HandiHaler and Respimat)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Asthma<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes (Respimat)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Is Spiriva better than Trelegy?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Trelegy and Spiriva are effective medications that help improve lung function and reduce exacerbations or flare-ups. Taking them consistently may help reduce the risk of hospital visits due to breathing problems and improve a person\u2019s overall quality of life.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, Spiriva is typically used for <\/span>less severe forms of COPD<\/span><\/a> in people who may only need a single inhaler to manage their symptoms. COPD can progress, and in people with more severe disease, Trelegy may be a better option since it combines three medications in one inhaler. Still, limited studies directly compare Trelegy and Spiriva.<\/span><\/p>\n

One study found that people with COPD who switched from one or two inhalers to a single triple inhaler like Trelegy had fewer flare-ups and <\/span>improved lung function<\/span><\/a>. Researchers also found that older adults and those who had more frequent flare-ups or asthma-like symptoms experienced the most benefit from switching.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What\u2019s best for one person might not be best for someone else. Only a healthcare provider can recommend the most effective medication based on factors like other medical conditions and interactions with other medications.<\/span><\/p>\n

COPD Coupons & Resources<\/a><\/p>\n

Trelegy vs. Spiriva: Insurance coverage and cost comparison<\/span><\/h2>\n

Insurance plans and Medicare Part D may cover Trelegy Ellipta and Spiriva, but actual coverage and out-of-pocket costs can vary by plan. It\u2019s important to check with specific insurance plans to see if these inhalers are on their formulary or preferred drug list.<\/span><\/p>\n

Without insurance or coupons, <\/span>Trelegy’s average retail price<\/span><\/a> for a 30-day supply is $918, depending on the pharmacy and location. The average retail price of Spiriva HandiHaler is $668, and the average retail price of Spiriva Respimat is $97. A generic version of Spiriva HandiHaler, tiotropium bromide, may be available at a lower cost than the brand-name drug.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Patients may be able to save with a <\/span>SingleCare prescription discount card<\/span><\/a>. Using this card can help people access up to 80% in savings and can be used at various pharmacies across the country.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare Trelegy vs. Spiriva cost & coverage<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

Coverage details<\/strong><\/td>\nTrelegy<\/b><\/td>\nSpiriva HandiHaler<\/b><\/td>\nSpiriva Respimat<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by insurance?<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by Medicare Part D?<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Quantity<\/b><\/td>\n1 box<\/span><\/td>\n1 box<\/span><\/td>\n1 box<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Average retail cost<\/b><\/td>\n$918<\/span><\/td>\n$675<\/span><\/td>\n$62<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SingleCare cost<\/b><\/td>\n$534<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n$266\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n$62\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Prescription drug prices often change. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing in ZIP code 23666 as of Dec. 11, 2025. The listed price without insurance references the price of brand-name drugs (unless otherwise specified). The listed SingleCare price references the price of generic drugs if available.<\/span><\/i><\/small><\/small><\/p>\n

Trelegy vs. Spiriva side effects<\/span><\/h2>\n

Both drugs share similar side effects, such as upper respiratory and urinary tract infections. In addition, both medications can cause headaches, sore throat, and cough. Other side effects are possible, although their severity and frequency of occurrence can vary.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Spiriva may be more likely to cause chest pain and dry mouth than Trelegy. However, Trelegy has been found to cause back pain as a potential side effect, which is not one that\u2019s listed on Spiriva\u2019s drug label.<\/span><\/p>\n

Both drugs can also cause serious side effects, including allergic reactions, especially in those with an allergy to milk proteins. Seek immediate medical attention for symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as rash, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing. For a complete list of side effects, consult a healthcare provider.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/thead>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare Trelegy vs. Spiriva side effects<\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

\u00a0 Side effect<\/strong><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Headache<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n6%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Chest pain<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n–<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n7%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Sore throat<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n15%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n9%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Upper respiratory tract infection<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n7%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n41%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Urinary tract infection<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n7%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dry mouth<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n–<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n16%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Constipation<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n>1%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n4%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Back pain<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n–<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cough<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Frequency is not based on data from a head-to-head trial. This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your healthcare provider to learn more.<\/span><\/i><\/small><\/p>\n

Source: DailyMed (<\/span>Trelegy<\/span><\/a>), DailyMed (<\/span>Spiriva<\/span><\/a>)<\/span> <\/small><\/small><\/p>\n

Trelegy and Spiriva drug interactions<\/span><\/h2>\n

Trelegy interacts with more drugs than Spiriva. However, both Trelegy and Spiriva can interact with other anticholinergic drugs, increasing the risk of certain side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. It\u2019s recommended to avoid using Trelegy and Spiriva with other anticholinergic-containing medications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition, Trelegy can interact with the following medications:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n