Description
Drug Description:
SereventDiskus (salmeterol) is an oral inhalation used as a maintenance treatment for asthma. It prevents and decreases symptoms like wheezing and breathing difficulty. It is also used for treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) with chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
This drug is a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist that allows you to breathe easily by relaxing the muscles in the airways. It stimulates the enzyme that allows the conversion of adenosine triphosphate to cyclic adenosine monophosphate. Once cyclic adenosine monophosphate is increased, it can relax bronchial smooth muscles and inhibit the release of immediate hypersensitivity mediators.
Directions
Before using SereventDiskus Inhaler, read the medication or prescription guide that comes with it. Dosage and frequency would depend on the advice of your physician. This inhaler is available in 50mcg / powder inhalation form.
Each SereventDiskus could dispense 60 inhalations. Throw the diskus properly 6 weeks after opening the foil pack or if the counter reads “0”, whichever comes first.
If you are using SereventDiskus to prevent asthma when doing vigorous activities, use it 30 minutes prior to prevent bronchospasm. Avoid administering another dose for the next 12 hours. However, if you experience sudden bronchospasm, use a prescribed quick-relief inhaler instead.
How to use SereventDiskus:
Take the SereventDiskus out of the foil pouch. On the label, write the date you opened the foil pack on the first line. On the second line, the date to be written should be 6 weeks or 42 days after you opened the pouch.
- Open the diskus by holding it with one hand and using the other hand to push the thumb grip away until you see the mouthpiece and you feel it snap.
- Hold the diskus in a flat position. The mouthpiece should be facing you. Push the lever away from the mouthpiece up until you hear it click.
- Check the counter of the inhaler; it should read “1”. This indicates that the inhaler is ready to use.
- Exhale fully and deeply through your mouth. Do not breathe into the mouthpiece yet.
- Put the mouthpiece inside your mouth and close your lips around it.
- Inhale quickly and deeply through your mouth. (Note: You might taste or feel something upon inhalation because SereventDiskus delivers very fine powder. )
- Hold your breath for not less than 10 seconds and remove the diskus from your mouth. Then, exhale again fully.
- Close the diskus by sliding the thumb grip back.
Side Effects
Some of the common SereventDiskus side effects are:
-headache
-dizziness
-nausea
-hoarseness
-sore throat or throat irritation
-dry mouth
-rapid heartbeat
-upset stomach
Most people using SereventDiskus experience mild side effects that resolve without medical intervention. However, if you experience severe adverse reactions like chest pain, irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, fainting, and seizure, you must discontinue using this inhaler and consult your physician immediately.
Precautions
Avoid using SereventDiskus if you have a known allergy to salmeterol, milk proteins, or any inactive ingredients this medication may have. Signs of an allergic reaction include persistent dizziness, red patches on the skin or rash, hives, and difficulty breathing. Seek emergency help if you start to develop an allergic reaction to SereventDiskus.
Talk to your doctor about any medical condition you have at present or if you have a history of hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, liver problem, seizure, or thyroid problems. Some medical conditions or drugs you are taking may affect how you respond to this medication.
When using this medication, watch out for QT prolongation, especially if you have hypokalemia (low potassium) or hypomagnesemia (low magnesium). This risk may further increase if you experience severe sweating, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I use SereventDiskus as a rescue inhaler?
SereventDiskus is not indicated for sudden breathing difficulties or asthma attacks. You should have a prescribed rescue inhaler.
SereventDiskus vs Advair – what is the difference?
Serevent’s sole active ingredient is salmeterol, whereas Advair has both salmeterol and fluticasone.
How should I store my SereventDiskus?
Store SereventDiskus in a cool, dry place, away from the heat and the sun.
Can pregnant women use SereventDiskus?
This inhaler should only be used for pregnant women if the potential benefits are more significant than the potential risks.
Can breastfeeding women use SereventDiskus?
There are still no definitive studies to prove whether or not this medication could pass into the breastmilk.