Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: SALMETEROL - INHALATION DISK (sal-MET-er-all)

BRAND NAME(S): Serevent

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: Rare (sometimes fatal) asthma-related problems have occurred with the use of products containing salmeterol. While this problem is rare, when it does occur it has affected black people more than other races. Do not stop using your medications for asthma or other breathing problems (emphysema or bronchitis) without doctor approval, since your condition will worsen if you suddenly stop your treatment. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

USES: Salmeterol opens air passages in the lungs to improve breathing. It is used to prevent/minimize problems in persons with breathing difficulties (e.g., asthma and chronic obstructive disorders of the lungs such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema). This medication is not for use in an acute asthma attack. Salmeterol is generally combined with another effective controller-type asthma medicine (such as an inhaled corticosteroid).

HOW TO USE: Make sure you understand how to use the device properly and how this medication should be used in relation to other asthma drugs. Refer to the illustrated directions provided by the manufacturer for instructions on the correct use of this device. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if there is anything in the illustration you do not understand. Always activate and use this device in a level, horizontal position. Usually, this medicine is used twice daily, (one inhalation in the morning and one in the evening) or use as directed by your doctor. Do not use it more frequently without your doctor's approval. If you find that your fast-acting inhaler is not working as well or if you need to use it more often than usual (i.e., using 4 or more puffs daily, or using more than 1 inhaler every 8 weeks), tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. This may be a sign of worsening asthma which is a serious condition. You should use this medication 30 to 60 minutes before exercise when using it to prevent exercise-induced asthma. Never exhale into the device. Do not use with a spacer. Never wash the mouthpiece or any part of the device. It must be kept dry. Rinse your mouth after using to help prevent dry mouth and to relieve throat irritation. If you find your symptoms do not improve or they worsen after using this, contact your doctor immediately.