Introduction
Seravent HFA is used for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder(COPD) ,a lung disorder in which flow of air to the lung is blocked. It helps in relaxing the muscles of the air passages, thus widening it and making it easier to breathe.
Seravent HFA is only for the inhalational purpose, so do not swallow the capsule. The first dose is given under medical supervision to prevent the side effects happen during first use. For better results, it is suggested to take it at the same time every day. The dose and how often you take it depends on what you are taking it for. Your doctor will decide how much you need to improve your symptoms. You should take this medicine for as long as it is prescribed for you. It does not prevent the already started breathing trouble or COPD attack, hence always carry your medical inhaler with you for an emergency.
The most common side effects of this medicine include Tremor (shaking hands), insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), headache and dry mouth. If these bother you or appear serious, let your doctor know. There may be ways of reducing or preventing them. Generally, it is advised to avoid alcohol while on treatment as it may affect heart rate.
Before taking this medicine, let your doctor know if you have a heart problem, or have high blood pressure or diabetes. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your doctor should also know about all other medicines you are taking as many of these may make this medicine less effective or change the way it works.
Uses of Seravent HFA
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Side effects of Seravent HFA
Common
- Tremor
- Headache
- Restlessness
- Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)
- Palpitations
- Muscle cramp
How to use Seravent HFA
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Do not chew, crush or break it.
How Seravent HFA works
Seravent HFA is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways and widens airways. This makes breathing easier.
What if you forget to take Seravent HFA?
If you miss a dose of Seravent HFA, skip it and continue with your normal schedule. Do not double the dose.
Indication
Chronic asthma, COPD
Adult Dose
Inhalation
Asthma Prevention and Maintenance, COPD Maintenance
Adult: As inhaler:
2 puffs (50 mcg) twice daily; up to 100 mcg twice daily if needed.
Prevention of Exercise-Induced Asthma
2 puffs (50 mcg) at least 30 min prior to exercise.
Child Dose
Inhalation
Child > 4 years
Asthma Prevention and Maintenance, COPD Maintenance
As inhaler:
2 puffs (50 mcg) twice daily; up to 100 mcg twice daily if needed.
Prevention of Exercise-Induced Asthma
2 puffs (50 mcg) at least 30 min prior to exercise.
Contraindication
Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Salmeterol or to the any excipient of this preparation. Monotherapy in the treatment of asthma. Treatment of status asthmaticus, other acute episodes of asthma or COPD.
Mode of Action
Salmeterol is a direct-acting sympathomimetic which relaxes bronchial smooth muscle by its selective action on beta 2 receptors with little effect on heart rate.
Precaution
Patient w/ CV disease, CNS disorders, DM, hyperthyroidism, hypokalaemia, seizure disorders, ketoacidosis. Not intended for the relief of acute bronchospasm. Hepatic impairment. Pregnancy and lactation. Monitoring Parameters Monitor pulmonary function, BP, heart rate, CNS stimulation, hepatic function; glucose and K levels..
Side Effect
>10%
Headache (13-17%),Pain (1-12%)
1-10%
Nasal congestion (9%),Hypertension (4%),Edema (1-3%),Dizziness (4%),Sleep disturbance (1-3%),Migraine (1-3%),Contact dermatitis (1-3%),Urticaria (3%),Hyperglycemia (1-3%),Articular rheumatism (1-3%),Paresthesia (1-3%),Muscular stiffness (1-3%),Photodermatitis (1-2%),Bronchitis (7%),Influenza (5%),Rigidity (1-3%),Rhinitis (5%),Asthma (3%)
Frequency Not Defined
Conjunctivitis,Hyperglycemia,Keratitis,Oral candidiasis,Chest tightness,Cataracts,Hypokalemia,Myositis
Interaction
Diuretics, corticosteroids and xanthines may augment hypokalaemia. Risk of severe hypertension when used with MAOIs, TCAs and other sympathomimetics. Increased susceptibility to cardiac arrhythmias caused by digoxin and other cardiac glycosides.