Serevent Diskus (Salmeterol)

Description

Serevent Diskus (Salmeterol) acts as a long-acting beta2-adrenergic receptor agonist (LABA). It works by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve breathing. Serevent Diskus is used as a long-term treatment for conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, it is not designed to quickly relieve sudden breathing issues, so it should not be used as a rescue inhaler in emergencies.

Directions

To use the Serevent Diskus, start by holding the device in one hand. With your other hand, use your thumb to push the lever until you hear a click. This prepares the Diskus to release the medicine when you inhale. Next, breathe out completely, place your lips around the mouthpiece, and inhale steadily and deeply through the Diskus. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds to help the medicine settle in your lungs.

The usual dosage is one inhalation twice a day, around 12 hours apart. Don’t use the inhaler more often than your doctor advises, and it shouldn't replace a rescue inhaler for sudden symptoms. Always follow your doctor's instructions when using Serevent Diskus, and reach out to them if you have any questions or if your symptoms get worse.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Serevent Diskus is Salmeterol.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Known severe hypersensitivity to milk proteins or any other ingredients in the product
• Uncontrolled asthma without the use of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)
• Acute episodes of asthma or COPD requiring intensive measures

Cautions

• Before starting treatment with Serevent Diskus, make sure to inform your healthcare provider if you have:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Long-acting beta-agonists, like Serevent Diskus, increase the risk of asthma-related death if used as monotherapy without an ICS. Always use Serevent Diskus with an ICS for asthma management.
• Do not use Serevent Diskus for immediate relief of acute asthma or COPD symptoms. Always keep a short-acting beta-agonist (e.g., albuterol) available for emergencies.
• If asthma or COPD symptoms worsen, reassess treatment immediately. Increased use of short-acting beta-agonists may indicate deteriorating control.
• Serevent Diskus is not a substitute for corticosteroids. Continue prescribed ICS or oral corticosteroid therapy even if symptoms improve.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose of Serevent Diskus or combine it with other LABA medications, as this can lead to serious cardiovascular effects or fatalities.
• Rarely, Serevent Diskus can cause bronchospasm, which may be life-threatening. If this occurs, stop use immediately and seek alternative treatment.
• Use Serevent Diskus cautiously in patients with heart conditions such as arrhythmias, coronary insufficiency, or hypertension, as it may cause changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or ECG readings.
• Rare severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, may occur. Patients with severe milk protein allergies should not use Serevent Diskus due to its lactose content.
• Avoid strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ritonavir, Ketoconazole), as these may increase cardiovascular side effects when combined with Serevent Diskus.
• Use caution in patients with conditions like convulsive disorders, thyrotoxicosis, diabetes, or ketoacidosis, as Serevent Diskus may exacerbate these conditions.
• Serevent Diskus may cause transient low potassium levels or changes in blood sugar. Monitor patients at risk of these conditions.
• LABA monotherapy increases the risk of asthma-related hospitalizations in children and adolescents. Therefore, a fixed-dose combination of ICS and LABA may need to be discussed with a doctor.

Side Effects

For people with asthma, the most common side effects of Serevent Diskus include headache, nasal congestion, bronchitis, throat irritation, runny nose, and flu symptoms. In individuals with COPD, common side effects include headache, musculoskeletal pain, throat irritation, cough, and respiratory infections. If these side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Serevent Diskus can cause serious side effects, including sudden breathing problems after inhalation. If this occurs, stop using the medication and seek medical attention immediately. Other serious effects include increased blood pressure, chest pain, tremors, and nervousness. Allergic reactions such as rash, hives, swelling, or breathing issues may also occur and require immediate care. Additionally, the medicine can affect blood sugar and potassium levels, so regular monitoring may be needed.

References:

1. Serevent Diskus (Salmeterol) Product Monograph. Research Triangle Park, NC: GlaxoSmithKline; 2019.
2. Serevent Diskus (Salmeterol) Drug Label Information. Durham, NC: GlaxoSmithKline; 2022.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....