Salmeterol

About Salmeterol

This belongs to the group of medicines known as bronchodilators.

Salmeterol can be used to treat asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other lung-related problems.

Bronchodilators work by opening up the air passages in the lungs so that air can flow into the lungs more freely. In doing so they help to relieve symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Salmeterol is available in aerosol and inhalation powder form.

It is also sometimes known as: Serevent. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Salmeterol

Before using Salmeterol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from hyperthyroidism (an over active thyroid gland)
• if you suffer from heart problems
• if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure)
• if you suffer from diabetes
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Salmeterol

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Use your inhaler at regular intervals to get the best effects from your medicine.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Salmeterol contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Salmeterol.
• Do not stop taking Salmeterol without speaking to your doctor first.
• Salmeterol is not a reliever, it does not work quickly enough to relieve an asthma attack that has already started. Your doctor will prescribe another inhaled medicine for you to use if you get an attack. Make sure that you keep it with you all the time.
• If you use a steroid (preventer) inhaler you should continue to use it even if Salmeterol improves your symptoms. If you have been given a Salmeterol inhaler and do not have a steroid inhaler contact your doctor or asthma nurse, as Salmeterol is not recommend for use alone.
• Keep your regular doctors appointments so your progress can be monitored.
• Do not smoke. Smoking causes severe irritation and damage to the lungs. It will make your condition worse and will reduce the beneficial effects of your medication.
• If your usual dose of Salmeterol does not provide at least twelve hours relief from asthma symptoms speak with your doctor.
• If you have diabetes: Check your blood glucose levels regularly as this preparation can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.

Can Salmeterol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome:

Shakiness, nervous tension, itching, headache, fast or fluttering heartbeat, disturbed sleep, behaviour changes in children, sore mouth or throat, feeling sick, dizziness or muscle cramps.

Whilst Salmeterol is beneficial for most asthmatics, it can occasionally cause an irritant reaction. If you find your breathing getting worse after using it, do not take any further doses, but consult a doctor as soon as possible.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Salmeterol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

Any more questions?

Look in PILS for a leaflet about your condition.

Updated: 25/04/2005   Reviewed by MPRG

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 25/04/2005