Serevent Diskus (Salmeterol)

Do’s

• Inhale Serevent Diskus by mouth, as directed by your healthcare provider, usually twice daily (morning and evening, 12 hours apart).
• Use it at the same time each day for best results.
• Continue using it regularly, even if you don't feel any symptoms.
• If using other inhalers, wait at least 1 minute between each one.
• Learn how to distinguish between your controller (Serevent Diskus) and quick-relief inhalers.
• Consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions on what to do if your symptoms worsen or your quick-relief inhaler seems less effective.
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition improves or worsens.

Don'ts

• Never exhale into the device.
• Do not use Serevent Diskus with a spacer.
• Never wash the mouthpiece or any part of the device.
• Don't use it more often than prescribed or exceed the recommended dosage (1 inhalation twice daily).
• Don't stop taking Serevent Diskus or change your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't use Serevent Diskus for sudden breathing problems. It's a preventative medication, not a quick-relief inhaler.

Common side effects:

• Headache
• Nasal congestion
• Bronchitis
• Throat irritation
• Runny nose
• Flu-like symptoms
• Musculoskeletal pain
• Cough
• Respiratory infection

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Worsening asthma symptoms or other breathing problems after using Serevent
• Severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in the neck or ears
• Chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeats
• Tremors, nervousness
• High blood sugar - increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor
• Low potassium level - leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in the chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling
• Serious allergic reactions, including rash, swelling of the face, mouth, and tongue, hives, breathing problems
• Changes in laboratory blood levels, including high levels of blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and low levels of potassium (hypokalemia)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Serevent diskus,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any allergies you have before using Serevent Diskus, including allergies to salmeterol or any inactive ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially if you have any of the following conditions:

• Heart problems (angina, irregular heartbeat)
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Liver problems
• Seizures
• Thyroid problems (overactive)

Serevent Diskus may cause irregular heartbeat (QT prolongation). This can be serious and requires immediate medical attention.

The risk of QT prolongation is increased by certain medical conditions and medications. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take and if you have any of these conditions:

• Certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation)
• Family history of heart problems (QT prolongation, sudden cardiac death)
• Low blood potassium or magnesium levels

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take before having surgery.

Older adults may be more at risk for QT prolongation.

Serevent Diskus should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

It is unknown if Serevent Diskus passes into breast milk. Consult with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Serevent Diskus is not for initial asthma treatment. It should only be used when other medications haven't controlled your asthma or when multiple medications are needed. It must be used with other asthma medications, not alone. Make sure you understand how to use Serevent Diskus properly.

Your healthcare provider may eventually stop Serevent Diskus if your asthma is controlled with other medications. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully.