Indications
Serevent Inhaler is a prescription medication used to treat reversible obstructive airway disease, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It should not be used to treat sudden attacks of asthma or COPD.
Serevent Inhaler contains the active ingredient salmeterol, which is a long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist that helps to open the airways in the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
Salmeterol can be used along with an inhaled steroid medication to control wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness and in adults and children 4 years of age and older with asthma. It can be used to prevent bronchospasm (breathing difficulties) during exercise in adults and children 4 years of age and older.
Use and Dosage
Salmeterol is a dry powder medication inhaled by mouth using a specially designed inhaler usually taken twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart. To ensure consistent dosages, use salmeterol at the same times every day. When using salmeterol to prevent breathing difficulties during exercise, use it at least 30 minutes prior to exercising, but no more frequently than once every 12 hours.
To use the inhaler, follow these steps:
- If you will be using a new inhaler for the first time, remove it from the box and the foil wrapper. Fill in the blanks on the inhaler label with the date that you opened the pouch and the date 6 weeks later when you must replace the inhaler.
- Hold the inhaler in one hand and put the thumb of your other hand on the thumbgrip. Push your thumb away from you as far as it will go until the mouthpiece appears and snaps into position.
- Hold the inhaler in a level, horizontal position with the mouthpiece toward you. Slide the lever away from you as far as it will go until it clicks.
- Every time the lever is pushed back, a dose is ready to inhale. You will see the number in the dose counter go down. Do not waste doses by closing or tilting the inhaler, playing with the lever, or advancing the lever more than once.
- Hold the inhaler level and away from your mouth and breathe out as far as you comfortably can.
- Keep the inhaler in a level, flat position. Put the mouthpiece to your lips. Breathe in quickly and deeply though the inhaler, not through your nose.
- Remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for 10 seconds or as long as you comfortably can. Breathe out slowly.
- You may taste or feel the salmeterol powder released by the inhaler. Even if you do not, do not inhale another dose. If you are not sure you are getting your dose of salmeterol, call your doctor or pharmacist.
- Put your thumb on the thumb grip and slide it back toward you as far as it will go. The device will click shut.
You should use Serevent Inhaler exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Rinse your mouth with water after each puff to reduce the risk of side effects. Do not take an extra dose before exercise if you are already using salmeterol twice a day regularly. Do not change the way you use any medications without consulting your doctor first.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Serevent Inhaler (Salmeterol):
- Burning or tingling of the hands or feet
- Cough
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Ear pain
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain, stiffness, or cramps
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Red or irritated eyes
- Runny nose
- Shaking of a part of your body that you cannot control
- Sore, irritated throat
- Sores or white patches in the mouth
- Stuffed nose
- Tooth pain
Serious Side Effects of Serevent Inhaler (Salmeterol):
- Chest pain
- Choking or difficulty swallowing
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Hives
- Hoarseness
- Loud, high-pitched breathing
- Rash
- Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes
Forms and Strength
Serevent Inhaler (Salmeterol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Serevent Inhaler: Inhaler
- 25 mcg
Cautions
- Serevent Inhaler should not be used as a rescue inhaler. If you experience sudden asthma symptoms, you should use a quick-relief inhaler instead.
- Serevent Inhaler is not recommended for children under the age of 4.
- Serevent Inhaler may increase the risk of asthma-related death, particularly in patients with severe asthma. It should be used only as an extra therapy for patients taking an inhaled corticosteroid.
- Serevent Inhaler may increase the risk of asthma symptoms and hospitalizations in some patients, and it should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, particularly those with a history of heart rhythm problems.
- Serevent Inhaler may interact with other medications, including beta-blockers and certain antidepressants. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before using Serevent Inhaler.
- Serevent Inhaler should be used with caution in patients with a history of seizures, thyroid problems, or low blood potassium levels.
- Serevent Inhaler may cause a paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening of breathing difficulty) immediately after inhalation. In case of such a reaction, Serevent should be discontinued immediately, and alternative therapy initiated.
- Serevent Inhaler should not be used during an acute episode of asthma or exacerbation of COPD and should not be used to treat respiratory insufficiency or hypoxemia.
- Serevent Inhaler should not be used more frequently or in higher doses than recommended by your doctor, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I miss a dose of Serevent Inhaler?
If you miss a dose of Serevent Inhaler, you should take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, you should skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Is it safe to stop using Serevent Inhaler abruptly?
No, it is not recommended to stop using Serevent Inhaler abruptly. You should consult your doctor or healthcare provider to determine the appropriate method for discontinuing the medication.
Can Serevent Inhaler be used for the treatment of COPD?
Yes, Serevent Inhaler can be used for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, consult your doctor or healthcare provider to determine the appropriate treatment regimen for your COPD.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/salmeterol-inhalation.html
- https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/s/serevent-cfcfree.pdf
- https://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/COPD/Inhalers/SereventDiskus.pdf
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a695001.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5330/serevent-diskus-inhalation/details
- https://www.goodrx.com/serevent/what-is
REVIEWS