SEREVENT DISKUS (Salmeterol Xinafoate)

What is this medication?

Salmeterol Xinafoate, Serevent Diskus
Beta2 Long-Acting Agonist

Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD); do not use for relief of acute bronchospasm.

“ALERT: US Boxed Warning

​Long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonists (LABAs), such as salmeterol, as monotherapy (without inhaled corticosteroids) increase the risk of asthma-related death.  Use of salmeterol for the treatment of asthma as monotherapy without a concomitant ICS is contraindicated.

The use of salmeterol should only be considered as an additional therapy for patients with asthma who are currently taking but are inadequately controlled on an inhaled corticosteroid.  Do not use salmeterol for patients whose asthma is adequately controlled on low- or medium-dose inhaled corticosteroid.”

How does this medication work?

Salmetrol Xinafoate, Serevent Diskus binds to beta-2 receptors on bronchial smooth muscle causing bronchial relaxation.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting Salmeterol Xinafoate, Serevent Diskus make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have cardiovascular disease, diabetes, exercise-induced bronchospasm, hepatic impairment, hyperthyroidism, hypokalemia and/or seizures.

How should I take this medication?

Oral: Usual: Use one inhalation twice daily (~12 hours apart); maximum dose is 1 inhalation twice daily.  Should be used on combination with an inhaled corticosteroid and not as monotherapy.

How to Take: Remove the Diskus from the sealed pouch prior to using.  Take a deep inhalation quickly through the Diskus; hold your breath for approximately 10 second and exhale slowly.  Do not use with a spacer.

You Need to Avoid:  Do not wash the mouthpiece; Diskus must be kept dry.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible.  However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose.  Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C); excursions permitted from 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C). Store in a dry place away from direct heat or sunlight.

Discard 6 weeks after opening the foil pouch or when the counter reads “0” (after all blisters have been used), whichever comes first.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Dry mouth, upper respiratory infection, pharyngitis, sinusitis.  It may rarely cause paradoxical bronchospasm which may be misinterpreted as lack of effect. If symptoms worsen after using, discontinue the medication.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only common ones.