Salmeterol

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Serevent

Popular combinations:

Foxair, Sereflo, Seretide

Drug group:

Drug to treat asthma

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Salmeterol is used to treat conditions of airway constriction - asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchospasm

How does it work?

Salmeterol is a long-acting selective beta2 agonist - it causes bronchodilation, relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways in the lungs. Because it has a slow onset and longer acting effects, it is not used for immediate relief of symptoms of asthma, but rather prescribed to prevent attacks.

How should it be used?

• Salmeterol should always be used in combination with inhaled or oral corticosteroids
• Inhaled salmeterol is preferred as the drug is delivered directly to the airways - smaller doses required, reduce risk of adverse effects

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

Daily dose for adults: 100–200mcg daily, in 2 doses

How quickly will it start to work?

10–20 minutes             
                     

How long will the effects last?

12 hours

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor     
                            

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Salmeterol is intended to be used long-term together with an inhaled corticosteroid. This combination leads to increased risk of low blood potassium levels - regular blood tests are usually required to monitor potassium levels.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: tremor (usually mild)
• Less common: palpitations, headache, muscle cramps
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening wheezing or breathlessness immediately after using the inhaler)

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: heart problems, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid gland
• Other medicines: corticosteroids, theophylline, diuretics, other sympathomimetics, digoxin, protease inhibitors (e.g. ritonavir/saquinavir/telaprevir)
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: No evidence of risk, benefits of treatment usually outweigh risks of uncontrolled asthma
• Children: Reduced dose necessary, not recommended for children <4 years
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol: No known problems