Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

SALMETEROL - INHALATION

(sal-MET-er-all)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Serevent

WARNING: Rare (sometimes fatal) asthma-related problems have occurred with the use of products containing salmeterol. While this problem is rare, when it does occur it has affected black people more than other races. Do not stop using your medications for asthma or other breathing problems (emphysema or bronchitis) without doctor approval, since your condition will worsen if you suddenly stop your treatment. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Uses

Salmeterol opens air passages in the lungs to improve breathing. It is used to prevent/minimize problems in persons with breathing difficulties (e.g., asthma and chronic obstructive disorders of the lungs such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema). This medication is not for use in an acute asthma attack. Salmeterol is generally combined with another effective controller-type asthma medicine (such as an inhaled corticosteroid).

How To Use

Make sure you understand how to use the inhaler properly. Shake the canister well before using. Place the canister near your mouth and exhale. Depress the spray as you inhale deeply. Hold your breath for a few seconds to allow the drug to be absorbed. If more than one inhalation is prescribed, wait at least one full minute between inhalations. Rinse your mouth after using to help prevent dryness and relieve throat irritation. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not use it more frequently without your doctor's approval. This medication should not be used more frequently than every 12 hours. Excessive use may result in a decrease in drug's effectiveness and an increase in its side effects. You should use this medication 30 to 60 minutes before exercise when using it to prevent exercise-induced asthma. If you find that your fast-acting inhaler is not working as well or if you need to use it more often than usual (i.e., using 4 or more puffs daily, or using more than 1 inhaler every 8 weeks), tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. This may be a sign of worsening asthma which is a serious condition. If symptoms do not improve or if they worsen after using this medication, call your doctor immediately.

Side Effects

Dry mouth, irritated throat, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, loss of appetite, restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, trembling, and sweating may occur but should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute. Inform your doctor if you experience: chest pain, pounding heartbeat. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid gland, epilepsy, diabetes, allergies (including soy products or peanuts), drug allergies. This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all drugs you may use, (both prescription and nonprescription) including: beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, labetalol, timolol), drugs used for asthma, antidepressants, diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine). It is important to read carefully all labels on over-the-counter preparations, especially those used to treat colds or allergies. Do not use these without first consulting your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, headache, tremors, nervousness, weakness, and dizziness.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Learn to use a peak flow meter, use it daily, and promptly report worsening asthma (such as readings in the yellow or red range, or increased use of quick-relief inhalers).

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not puncture.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).