This product is used to control and prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma or ongoing lung disease (chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis
and emphysema). It contains 2 medications: fluticasone and salmeterol.
Fluticasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It
works by reducing the irritation and swelling of the airways. Salmeterol
belongs to the class of drugs known as long-acting beta agonists. It
works by opening airways in the lungs to make breathing easier.
Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from
work or school.
ß-agonist PowderWhen used alone, long-acting beta agonists (such as salmeterol) may rarely increase the risk of serious (sometimes fatal) asthma-related
breathing problems. However, combination inhaled corticosteroid and
long-acting beta agonists, such as this product, do not increase the
risk of serious asthma-related breathing problems. For asthma treatment,
this product should be used when breathing problems are not well
controlled with one asthma-control medication (such as inhaled
corticosteroid) or if your symptoms need combination treatment.
Before using this medication, it is important to learn how to use it properly. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It
does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma
attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler
(such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as
prescribed.
How to use FLUTICASONE-SALMETEROL Blister, With Inhalation Device
Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and
each time you get a refill. Follow the illustrated directions for the
proper use of this medication. If you have any questions, ask your
doctor or pharmacist.
Depending on your brand, the inhaler should be used in a level, flat position or in a vertical position. Inhale this medication by mouth as
directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (in the morning and
evening, 12 hours apart). You may or may not taste/feel the drug when
you inhale. Either is normal. Do not exhale into the device.
Do not take the inhaler apart or wash the mouthpiece or any part of the device. Close the device after each use.If you are using other
inhalers at the same time, wait at least 1 minute between the use of
each medication, and use this drug last.Gargle and rinse your mouth with
water after each use of this medication to help prevent irritation and
yeast infections (thrush) in the mouth and throat. Do not swallow the
rinse water.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. This medication works best if used at evenly spaced times. To help
you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not increase your
dose, use this medication more often, or stop using it without talking
with your doctor. Also, do not use other long-acting beta agonists while
using this medication.
If you have been using a quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) on a regular daily schedule
(such as 4 times daily), you must stop this schedule and only use the
quick-relief inhaler as needed for sudden shortness of breath/asthma
attacks. Consult your doctor for details.
If you are regularly taking a different corticosteroid by mouth (such as prednisone), you should not stop taking it unless directed by your
doctor. Some conditions (such as asthma, allergies) may become worse
when the drug is suddenly stopped. If you suddenly stop taking the drug,
you may also have withdrawal symptoms (such as weakness, weight loss,
nausea, muscle pain, headache, tiredness, dizziness). To help prevent
withdrawal, your doctor may slowly lower the dose of your old medication
after you begin using fluticasone/salmeterol. Tell your doctor or
pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal. See also Precautions
section.
It may take 1 week or longer before you get the full benefit of this drug. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it
worsens.
Learn which of your inhalers you should use every day (controller drugs) and which you should use if your breathing suddenly worsens
(quick-relief drugs). Ask your doctor ahead of time what you should do
if you have new or worsening cough or shortness of breath, wheezing,
increased sputum, worsening peak flow meter readings, waking up at night
with trouble breathing, if you use your quick-relief inhaler more often
(more than 2 days a week), or if your quick-relief inhaler does not
seem to be working well. Learn when you can treat sudden breathing
problems by yourself and when you must get medical help right away.
