Seretide 25/250 is an inhaled asthma medication containing the active ingredients salmeterol and fluticasone. Refer to the article below to learn about its usage and precautions when using Seretide.
1. Uses of Seretide 25/250
Seretide 25/250 inhaler is indicated for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
It is prescribed for:
- Asthma in adults and children over 4 years old, including patients who:
- Are not adequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids and short-acting beta-agonist inhalers "as needed."
- Still experience symptoms while on inhaled corticosteroid treatment.
- Are effectively controlled with both long-acting beta-agonists and inhaled corticosteroids.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Used for maintenance treatment of airway obstruction and to reduce exacerbations in COPD patients.
2. How to use and dosage of Seretide 25/250
2.1. How to use
Seretide 25/250 inhaler is used by inhalation through the mouth. Below is the correct way to use it:
- Check the inhaler: Before first use, remove the mouthpiece cover by gently squeezing the sides of the cover. Shake the inhaler well and release a test spray into the air until the counter reads 120 to ensure it functions correctly. Always shake the inhaler before each use. If not used for a week or longer, shake well and release one spray into the air before use.
- Steps for using the inhaler:
- Step 1: Gently squeeze the sides of the cap to remove the mouthpiece cover.
- Step 2: Check the inhaler for any loose or damaged parts.
- Step 3: Shake the inhaler well to mix the medication properly.
- Step 4: Hold the inhaler upright with your thumb at the base and fingers on top.
- Step 5: Exhale fully until comfortable, then place the mouthpiece between your teeth and close your lips around it—do not bite the mouthpiece.
- Step 6: As you begin to inhale deeply and steadily, press the top of the inhaler to release the medication while continuing to inhale.
- Step 7: Hold your breath for as long as comfortable, then remove the inhaler from your mouth and relax your fingers from the top of the inhaler.
- Step 8: If taking another dose, wait about 30 seconds before repeating steps 3 to 7.
- Step 9: Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out.
- Step 10: Replace the mouthpiece cover by pressing it back in place. If it does not fit properly, rotate it and try again. Do not force it.
Notes: Do not rush through steps 5, 6, and 7. It is essential to begin inhaling slowly before pressing the inhaler. Use a mirror when practicing to ensure no mist escapes from the top of the inhaler or the sides of your mouth. If mist escapes, restart from step 2.
- When the dose counter shows 020, prepare a replacement inhaler. When it reaches 000, discard the inhaler as the remaining medication may not be sufficient for a full dose.
If your doctor provides specific instructions, follow them accordingly. Inform your doctor if you experience any difficulties using the inhaler.
2.2. Dosage
- Experts recommend taking Seretide 25 250 regularly to get maximum benefit, even if there are no symptoms.
- For asthma (reversible airway obstruction): The dose should be adjusted to the lowest effective level to maintain symptom control. When symptoms are well-controlled with twice-daily use, the dose may be reduced to once daily. Patients should use a Seretide inhaler with fluticasone at an appropriate strength for their condition.
- Adults and adolescents (12 years and older): Two inhalations twice daily. The maximum recommended dose is 500/50 mcg, twice daily.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): The recommended dose for adults is two inhalations twice daily.
- Special populations: Elderly patients or those with liver/kidney impairment: No dosage adjustment needed.
3. Contraindications of Seretide 25/250
Seretide 25/250 should not be used in the following cases:
- Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients.
- Initial treatment for asthma or acute exacerbations of asthma or COPD requiring immediate intensive treatment.
4. Side effects of Seretide 25/250
Possible side effects include:
- Infections and infestations: Oral and throat candida infections, bronchitis, pneumonia (in COPD patients).
- Immune system disorders: Skin hypersensitivity reactions, breathing difficulties.
- Endocrine disorders: Cushing’s syndrome, slowed growth in children, adrenal suppression, decreased bone mineral density.
- Metabolic and nutritional disorders: The most common issue is hypokalemia; hyperglycemia is less frequent.
- Psychiatric disorders: Anxiety, sleep disturbances.
- Nervous system disorders: Headache, tremors.
- Eye disorders: Cataracts, glaucoma.
- Cardiac disorders: Palpitations, atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, angina, arrhythmias.
- Respiratory disorders: Nasopharyngitis, hoarseness, throat irritation, sinusitis.
- Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Bruising.
- Musculoskeletal disorders: Muscle cramps, joint pain, muscle pain, fractures due to trauma.
This is not a complete list of side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms while using Seretide 25/250, consult your doctor immediately.
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