SEREVENT DISKUS (SALMETEROL)

Serevent Diskus Description

Serevent Diskus may be prescribed as additional therapy for individuals whose asthma is not adequately controlled by their current long-term medication. The active ingredient of Serevent Diskus is Salmeterol, a long-acting beta agonist (LABA) that your doctor may also prescribe as maintenance control medication to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

How Serevent Diskus Provides Better Control of Your Symptoms

When this LABA bronchodilator is administered as directed, it stimulates the beta-2 receptors on the smooth muscles that line your airways, causing these muscles to relax so they open wider and allow you to breathe easier. Wheezing, coughing, and congestion are reduced so that you may continue throughout the day without becoming short of breath. Serevent Diskus is long-acting; it will not stop an asthma attack that has already begun. You should have a “rescue” inhaler close-by at all times to act quickly in case of a sudden attack.

Conditions Treated by Serevent Diskus

Asthma tends to run in families and is more common in those dealing with allergies. Emphysema develops slowly as years of smoking make breathing more difficult as the air sacs in your lungs (alveoli) become damaged and your lungs are unable to send a sufficient oxygen supply to your bloodstream. Chronic bronchitis involves scarring to the lining of your bronchial tubes from continual inflammation. The thick build-up of mucus prevents proper air flow to and from your lungs. The mucus is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Smoking is a factor for COPD, as well as exposure to air pollution, chemicals, and dust.

Although there is no cure for asthma or COPD, Serevent Diskus can provide you with relief from restricted airways so you can enjoy doing the activities you want without feeling that your breathing is compromised. As Serevent Diskus reduces your total lung volume, there is less resistance of the respiratory muscles so your symptoms are greatly decreased.

Before Serevent Diskus is Prescribed

Serevent Diskus is only to be prescribed as a maintenance drug to be used with other long-term medication, which is usually an inhaled corticosteroid medicine, to manage your symptoms better. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding so it can be determined if Serevent Diskus is the right medication for you and safe for your unborn or nursing baby. Explain other medical conditions you have to your doctor and list any over the counter and Rx drugs you take or use, including herbal and vitamin supplements to determine whether there may be a negative interaction with Serevent Diskus.

Serevent Diskus Precautions

You should not start or stop taking other medications without first talking to your doctor as you may need a dosage adjustment to Serevent Diskus. If you are a diabetic, you should monitor your blood glucose levels often as the use of Serevent Diskus can affect it. If your symptoms do not improve with the use of Serevent Diskus, do not alter the dosage without first talking to your doctor.

Possible Side Effects of Serevent Diskus

• Headache
• Throat irritation
• Nasal/sinus congestion