Salmetrol + Fluticasone

Salmetrol + Fluticasone — Uses and Benefits

This combination medicine is mainly used for the long-term control and prevention of symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Long-term control of asthma symptoms like wheezing, breathlessness and chest tightness
• Maintenance treatment of COPD to reduce flare-ups
• Reducing the frequency of asthma or COPD attacks when used regularly

HOW IT WORKS

• Salmeterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles around the airways, keeping them open for longer
• Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that reduces swelling and inflammation inside the airways
• Together they improve breathing and reduce the chance of sudden worsening of symptoms

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for immediate relief of a sudden asthma attack or acute breathlessness
• Not a rescue inhaler; a fast-acting reliever inhaler should be used for sudden symptoms
• Not used for infections of the lungs like pneumonia or tuberculosis
• Not recommended for children unless specifically advised by a doctor

How to Use Salmetrol + Fluticasone

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Use only by inhalation, through the mouth, as prescribed by your doctor
• Shake the inhaler well before use, if it is a metered-dose type
• Breathe out fully before inhaling the dose, then inhale slowly and deeply
• Hold your breath for a few seconds after inhaling, then breathe out slowly
• Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use to prevent throat irritation and oral thrush
• Use it regularly at the same times each day for best results, even if you feel well
• Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the inhaler cap closed when not in use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not puncture, break or burn the canister

Salmetrol + Fluticasone — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Throat irritation or hoarseness
• Headache
• Oral thrush (white patches in mouth) if mouth is not rinsed after use
• Cough

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Muscle cramps
• Tremor or shakiness
• Fast heartbeat (palpitations)
• Nausea

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden worsening of breathing or wheezing after using the inhaler
• Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips or throat, rash, or difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Vision changes or eye pain
• Signs of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst or frequent urination

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Salmetrol + Fluticasone — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to salmeterol, fluticasone or any other ingredient in the inhaler
• Are having a sudden severe asthma attack (this medicine is not a rescue inhaler)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have heart disease, high blood pressure, or irregular heartbeat
• Have diabetes
• Have tuberculosis or any untreated lung infection
• Have liver disease
• Have osteoporosis or weak bones
• Have glaucoma or cataracts
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other steroid medicines, including tablets, injections, or creams
• Beta-blockers used for heart problems or blood pressure
• Certain antifungal or HIV medicines, as they can raise levels of fluticasone
• Diuretics (water pills), as combined use may lower potassium levels
• Other bronchodilator inhalers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use this inhaler for sudden breathlessness?

No, this is a maintenance inhaler and does not work fast enough for sudden symptoms; keep a reliever inhaler for emergencies.

How long does it take to work?

It may take a few days to two weeks of regular use to see full benefit, so continue using it even if you don't feel immediate improvement.

Can children use this medicine?

• It may be used in some children under strict medical supervision, but the dose and suitability must be decided by a doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.