Seretide (salmeterol and fluticasone inhaler)

Seretide is the brand name of a product that contains salmeterol xinafoate and fluticasone propionate. Salmeterol is a beta-agonist that helps relieve bronchoconstriction (tight airways). Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that temporarily suppresses the immune system and reduces inflammatory responses.

Uses

What is Seretide used for?

It is commonly prescribed to treat asthma, obstructive airway disease, and COPD.

How should I take Seretide?

• Use your inhaler every day, until your doctor advises you to stop. Do not take more than the recommended dose. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
• Do not stop taking Seretide or reduce the dose of Seretide without talking to your doctor first.
• Seretide should be inhaled through the mouth into the lungs.
• Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist should show you how to use your inhaler. They should check how you use it from time to time.

How do I store Seretide?

This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. Do not pierce the container.

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using Seretide?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

Side effects

What side effects can occur from Seretide?

Like all drugs, Seretide may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Headache
• Oral thrush
• Aching, swollen joints and muscle pain
• Muscle cramps

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Seretide?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug.

Does food or alcohol interact with Seretide?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Seretide?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Take 2 puffs twice a day, or as directed by your doctor.

What is the dose for a child?

For children 4 to 12 years of age using Seretide Evohaler 25/50, take 2 puffs twice a day.

Seretide is not recommended for use in children below 4 years of age. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is Seretide available?

Seretide is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Diskus 100, 250, 500
• MDI (metered-dose inhaler) 25/50, 25/125, 25/250

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.