Serevent

Generic name: Salmeterol xinafoate

What is Serevent?

Serevent is used to prevent asthma attacks. Serevent relaxes the muscles in the walls of the bronchial tubes, allowing the passageways to expand and carry more air. It will not treat an asthma attack that has already begun. Serevent inhalation is also used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

What is the most important information I should know about Serevent?

Serevent is intended only for long-term prevention of symptoms, and should not be used more than twice a day. Do not use it to treat acute asthma attacks, and do not attempt to relieve worsening asthma by increasing the frequency of your doses. You should always have a short-acting bronchodilator with you for the relief of sudden asthma symptoms.

Asthma can be a life-threatening condition that needs immediate medical attention. Alert your doctor if your short-acting bronchodilator is becoming less effective. Tell your doctor if you need 4 or more inhalations of your short-acting bronchodilator daily for 2 days or more in a row, or you finish a 200-dose canister in <8 weeks.

A study found that the main ingredient in Serevent, salmeterol, may be associated with rare cases of serious asthma attacks or asthma-related death. Talk with your doctor about your options. Do not stop using Serevent without first consulting your doctor.

Who should not take Serevent?

Do not take Serevent if you are allergic to the medication or any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Serevent?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Serevent. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, an irregular heartbeat, seizure disorder, liver problems, or an overactive thyroid.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Asthma

Adults and children >4 years: The usual dose is 1 inhalation (50 micrograms) twice a day (morning and evening, approximately 12 hours apart).

Prevention of Exercise-Induced Asthma

Adults and children >4 years: Take 1 inhalation at least 30 minutes before exercise. Do not take another dose for 12 hours. (If you are on a twice-daily dosage schedule, do not take additional Serevent before exercise.)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Adults: The usual dose is 1 inhalation twice a day (morning and evening, approximately 12 hours apart).

How should I take Serevent?

Use no more than the prescribed dose and follow package directions closely. Space your 2 daily doses approximately 12 hours apart, in the morning and evening. To be effective, the drug must be used regularly every day.

Serevent Diskus should never be used with a spacer. Always activate the Diskus device in a level, horizontal position. Never exhale into the Diskus device, and always keep it dry. Do not wash the mouthpiece or any other part of the device. Never attempt to take the Diskus apart.

What should I avoid while taking Serevent?

You may be able to taste or feel the medication delivered by the Diskus. Whether you can sense the delivery of a dose or not, never take more inhalations than your doctor has prescribed.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Serevent?

If Serevent is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Serevent with the following: airway-opening medications, atazanavir, beta blockers, clarithromycin, diuretics (water pills), itraconazole, ketoconazole, MAO inhibitors, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, tricyclic antidepressants

What are the possible side effects of Serevent?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: asthma, back pain, bronchitis, chest congestion, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, nasal inflammation, pallor, respiratory tract infection, sinus headache, sinus infection, sinus problems, sore throat, stomachache, tremor

Can I receive Serevent if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Serevent during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Serevent?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Serevent?

Store Serevent Diskus at room temperature away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and freezing temperatures. Keep the Diskus in a dry place. Throw away the Diskus inhalation device after every blister has been used (when the dose indicator reads "0") or 6 weeks after the blisters have been removed from the foil pouch.