What is the most important information I should know about salmeterol inhalation?
Do not use salmeterol inhalation to treat an asthma attack that has
already begun. It will not work fast enough to reverse your symptoms. Use another, faster-acting
inhalation medication to treat an asthma attack.
Salmeterol inhalation is has been shown to increase the risk of asthma-related death.
It is critical that you use only the prescribed dose of this medicine and follow all patient
instructions for safe use of the medication. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks and
benefits in using salmeterol inhalation.
Asthma is usually treated with a combination of different drugs. To best treat your
condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. Do not change your doses or
medication schedule without advice from your doctor.
Do not use a second form of salmeterol (such as Advair) or use a similar inhaled
bronchodilator such as formoterol or arformoterol (Foradil, Perforomist, Symbicort, or Brovana)
unless your doctor has told you to.
Seek medical attention if you think any of your asthma medications are not working
as well as usual. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma
attack.
It is important to use salmeterol inhalation regularly to get the most benefit. Get your
prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
Do not stop using salmeterol inhalation without first talking to your doctor. Your
asthma symptoms may get worse after you stop using the medication.
What is salmeterol inhalation?
Salmeterol is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve
breathing.
Salmeterol inhalation is used to prevent asthma attacks. It will not treat an asthma attack
that has already begun. Salmeterol inhalation is also used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD) including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Salmeterol inhalation may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication
guide.
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