Information about Serevent Accuhaler (Salmeterol Xinafoate)
Serevent Accuhaler (Salmeterol Xinafoate) is a long-acting bronchodilator medication used to help manage and control symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways in the lungs, helping to improve airflow and make breathing easier.
Product Highlights
- Used as a maintenance treatment to prevent asthma symptoms, including wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
- Used to help manage and control symptoms of COPD, such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, by improving airflow in the lungs.
- It may be used to help prevent symptoms triggered by physical activity, though it is not a rescue medication.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Provides up to 12 hours of bronchodilation, helping to control symptoms and reduce the frequency of asthma or COPD flare-ups.
- By relaxing the muscles around the airways, it makes it easier to breathe and can help improve lung function.
- Helps prevent symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and breathlessness, particularly when used regularly as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
- For patients with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, Serevent can help prevent symptoms triggered by physical activity.
Direction of Use
- Serevent Accuhaler is an inhaled medication, delivered via the Accuhaler device. The patient should inhale the medication orally.
- Typically, one inhalation (50 mcg) is taken twice daily, about 12 hours apart. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and avoid exceeding the recommended amount.
- It's important to use the device properly to ensure that the full dose is delivered to the lungs. Patients should be instructed on how to use the Accuhaler correctly.
Safety Concerns
- Common side effects may include headaches, throat irritation, coughing, and tremors. These typically lessen as the body becomes accustomed to the medication.
- Salmeterol may cause an increase in heart rate or palpitations in some people. Patients with heart conditions should be carefully monitored.
- LABAs like salmeterol should not be used alone for asthma treatment; they are generally prescribed in combination with inhaled corticosteroids. Using Serevent alone for asthma can increase the risk of asthma-related complications, including severe asthma attacks.
- Rare but serious allergic reactions, including rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing, may occur. If any such symptoms develop, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Avoid Serevent Accuhaler (Salmeterol Xinafoate) If
- If you have a known hypersensitivity to salmeterol or any of the inactive ingredients in the Accuhaler device, you should avoid using it.
- Serevent should not be used alone to treat asthma; it must always be combined with inhaled corticosteroids.
- Serevent is not a "rescue" medication and should not be used to treat sudden asthma attacks or flare-ups. A fast-acting bronchodilator (like albuterol) should be used in such situations.
- Avoid use in patients with certain heart conditions, including arrhythmias, angina, or other serious cardiovascular issues, without medical supervision.
- Consult a healthcare provider before using Serevent during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as its safety during these times has not been fully established.
