Serevent

• Serevent is a preventer inhaler used to keep the symptoms of asthma and COPD under control
• Serevent contains a bronchodilator called salmeterol
• Salmeterol helps the muscles in the airways to stay relaxed so that you can breathe more easily
• You will likely also require a reliever inhaler to be taken in case of an asthma attack (exacerbation of asthma) or an exacerbation of COPD
• It is important to read the patient leaflet for a full list of side effects and cautions.

Serevent contains the bronchodilator salmeterol. Salmeterol helps the muscles around the airways within the lungs stay open and more relaxed, so that breathing feels easier. 

Serevent does not work as quickly as a reliever inhaler, but has a longer lasting effect to reduce the risk of asthma or COPD exacerbations. However, you should always carry your reliever inhaler with you in case your symptoms worsen.

Serevent is available as an Accuhaler (a round, dry powder inhaler) or an Evohaler (a metered dose inhaler).

The two inhalers are taken differently, and it is important that you read the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you take your inhaler properly.

For the Serevent Evohaler, the following instructions will help you understand how to take your inhaler.

1. Sit or stand up straight to take your inhaler.
2. Check the dose counter to be sure that the inhaler isn’t empty.
3. Remove the cover and check there is nothing inside the mouthpiece.
4. Shake the inhaler well.
5. Breathe out away from the inhaler.
6. Put the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips around it to form a good seal. Do not bite the inhaler.
7. Push the top of the canister down firmly and breathe in quickly and deeply. This will help to draw the medication into the lungs.
8. Take your finger off the canister and remove the inhaler from your mouth, then keep your mouth closed.
9. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, or for as long as is comfortable.
10. Breathe out slowly.
11. If you are prescribed a second dose, repeat steps 4 to 10.
12. Replace the cap of the inhaler.

Some people find it easier to take their Serevent Evohaler with a spacer device. Speak to your doctor if you think you might benefit from using a spacer.

If you are prescribed the Serevent Accuhaler, the following instructions may help.

1. Sit or stand up straight to take your inhaler.
2. Open the inhaler by pushing the thumb grip around until the inhaler clicks. 
3. Next, slide the lever down until it clicks. This means that the powder is now ready to be inhaled.
4. Breathe out away from the inhaler, and then place the mouthpiece into your mouth. 
5. Breathe in slowly but deeply to inhale the medication. 
6. Remove the inhaler from your mouth and then hold your breath for around 10 seconds. 
7. Exhale.
8. If you are prescribed a second dose, repeat steps 2 to 7.
9. Close the Accuhaler once you have taken the full dose.

Your dosage of Serevent will depend on the severity of your symptoms. 

The Serevent Evohaler contains 25 micrograms of salmeterol per inhalation. The Serevent Accuhaler contains 50 micrograms of salmeterol per inhalation.

It is common to take two puffs of either inhaler twice daily.

Check your prescribing instructions carefully to ensure you take the correct dose.

Like all medications, Serevent can have some side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Headache
• Tremor
• Palpitations (feeling your heart racing)
• Muscle cramps.

These side effects are likely to settle down, but if they persist or become troublesome you should speak to your doctor for further advice.

Serious allergic reactions happen very rarely. If you have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) including breathlessness, lip swelling or tongue swelling, call 999 immediately.

Serevent may not be suitable for everyone. You should tell your prescriber if you:

• Have an allergy to Serevent, salmeterol or any other medication
• Have heart disease
• Have an abnormal heart rhythm
• Have thyroid disease
• Have diabetes 
• Have low potassium levels on blood testing
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding – this is because it is important that your asthma is well controlled at these times.

Your prescriber can then advise whether Serevent is a suitable medication for you.

Occasionally, using a new inhaler can lead to worsening of your symptoms. If you notice shortness of breath, wheeze, or a persistent cough after taking Serevent inhaler, use your reliever inhaler and contact your doctor straight away.

Some medications can interact with Serevent. You may be advised that Serevent will not suit you if you already take:

• Beta blockers
• Antifungal medications.

Because Serevent may not suit everyone, we will complete a Consultation with you including a health questionnaire. This will ensure that the medication will be suitable for you.

A qualified prescriber will review your current medications, including any herbal remedies or supplements, to ensure that Serevent will not interact with them. 

Once prescribed, Serevent will be ordered on your behalf via electronic prescription. Serevent will then be conveniently dispatched from one of our partner pharmacies.