What is Serevent?
Serevent is a long-acting beta-2-agonist (LABA) of GlaxoSmithKline with the active ingredient Salmeterol. It is used as a supplement to inhalative corticoids in asthma and for continuous therapy in COPD.
Salmeterol acts for 12 hours and must therefore be inhaled 2x daily. Unlike formoterol, the action only starts after 10-20 minutes, which is why Serevent is not suitable as an emergency medication.
Serevent is available as a discus (powder inhaler) and as a dosing aerosol. The same active ingredient is also contained in the combination inhalers seretide and viani.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Salmeterol
Salmeterol activates the beta-2-receptors long-lasting:
Active mechanism:
- Ties to beta-2-adrenoceptors in bronchial muscles
- High lipophilia: anchors laterally in the cell membrane
- Repeated interaction with the active center of the receptor
- This long-lasting bronchodilation (12 hours)
Time:
- Effect entry: 10-20 minutes
- Maximum effect: 2-4 hours
- duration of action: 12 hours
**Important difference to salbutamol:* * Salmeterol is a partial agonist with slow action – therefore not suitable for acute situations!
Who is it suitable for?
Serevent is suitable for:
- Asthma continuous therapy (always together with ICS!)
- COPD long-term treatment
- Prophylaxis of night asthma
- Prophylaxis of stress asthma (long term)
Safety note: Serevent can be used alone at Asthma NIEMALS! Always in combination with an inhalative corticoid.
Not suitable:
- As an emergency medication (too slow entry)
- As sole asthma therapy
- For MART (other than Formoterol)
Available Dosages
Serevent Diskus:
- 50 μg per single dose
- 1 inhalation 2x daily
Serevent dosing aerosol:
- 25 μg per stroke
- 2 strokes 2x daily
Dosing:
- Not more than 100 μg (2 inhalations discus) per day
- Always at the same time (morning and evening)
How to Take
Diskus: 1. Keep discus in one hand, use thumbrest Two. Open until it clicks 3. Push back lever (dose is loaded) 4. Breathe deep (not in the discus) Five. Close the mouthpiece 6. Breathe uniformly and deeply 7. Keep breath 10 seconds 8. Close the disc
Important notes:
- Apply regularly, even without complaints
- Always provide emergency inhaler (e.g. salbutamol)
- Do not use as a demand medication
Contraindications
Do not apply at:
- hypersensitivity to salmeterol or lactose
- As sole therapy for asthma
Preview at:
- Heavy cardiovascular diseases
- Hyperthyroidism
- QT extension
- Hypokaliemia
- Diabetes mellitus
pregnant: Only with clear indication. Uncontrolled asthma is more dangerous.
Style time: Application possible after use-risk weighing.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Tremor
- Headaches
- Heart palp
- Muscle cramps
Occasionally:
- Nervosity
- Squeeze
- Skin rash
- joint pain
Selten:
- Heart rhythm disorders
- Paradox bronchospasmus
- Angioedema
- Hypokaliemia
** When used regularly, tremor and palpitations often take off after a few days.
Interactions
Reactions:
- Betablockers – can eliminate Salmeterol effect
- QT-extending medication
- MAO inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole) – increased salmeterol levels
Not recommended:
- At the same time other LABA (doubling)
- Non-selective beta blockers in asthma
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Serevent right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.