Serevent

What is it?

A bronchodilator and selective lIz-agonist available as a metered dose aerosol delivering 25µg of salmeterol (as xinafoate) per dose. Also, SEREVENT DISKHALER, using disks containing 4 x 50µg blisters salmeterol (as xinafoate) with breath-activated delivery system. Also, SEREVENT ACCUHALER, breath- activated inhaler delivering 50µg of salmeterol as xinafoate per dose.

Medical Uses

Asthma (including that induced by exercise or occurring at night), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for those requiring long-term treatment. Generally combined with anti-inflammatory therapy.

Dosage

Adults, Serevent, asthma, 2 puffs twice each day, 4 puffs if exceptionally severe; COPD, 2 puffs twice each day. Serevent Diskhaler, 1 blister twice each day or 2 if very severe; COPD, 1 blister twice each day. Children, Serevent, age over 4 years, 2 puffs twice each day. Serevent Diskhaler, 1 blister twice each day.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, thyrotoxicosis, severe asthma or worsening condition - oral steroids or high doses of inhaled steroids may be required. Steroid therapy should be continued. Avid use: children under 4 years, acute asthma attack. Do not start treatment if patient is getting significantlyworse.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Steroids, β-blockers, diuretics, xanthines.

Known Side Effects

Paradoxical bronchospasm, low blood potassium levels. In rare cases, skin effects, pain in chest, joints and muscles, headache, palpitations, tremor, irritation of throat.

Manufacturer

A & H