Salmeterol

Generic name: salmeterol [ sal-ME-ter-ol-zye-NAF-oh-ate ]

Drug class: Adrenergic bronchodilators

Brand Name: Serevent

Dosage Forms: Inhaler (Dry Powder Inhaler)

Route of Administration: Inhalation

Dose: 50 mcg per actuation

Mechanism of Action:
Salmeterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that works by stimulating β2-adrenergic receptors in the bronchial smooth muscles, leading to relaxation and bronchodilation. It provides prolonged bronchodilation, lasting about 12 hours, making it suitable for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Drug Usage Cases:
Salmeterol is used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and is not intended for the relief of acute bronchospasm or asthma attacks. It is often combined with inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone, to control asthma symptoms and improve lung function. It is also used to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm.

Drug Contraindications: :
Salmeterol is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to salmeterol or its components. It should not be used as a primary treatment for status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD requiring intensive measures. It should not be used as monotherapy for asthma due to the increased risk of asthma-related death. Caution is advised in patients with cardiovascular disorders, seizure disorders, thyrotoxicosis, and diabetes mellitus.

Side Effects:
Common side effects may include headache, throat irritation, cough, musculoskeletal pain, and tremor. Serious side effects requiring medical attention include allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeats, severe dizziness or fainting, worsening breathing problems (paradoxical bronchospasm), and high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in the ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain).

Warnings:
Salmeterol is associated with an increased risk of asthma-related death, particularly when used without an inhaled corticosteroid. It should not be the first medication used to treat asthma. Patients must follow their doctor’s prescription carefully and not overuse the medication. Salmeterol should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease due to potential heart-related side effects. It is not intended for the relief of acute bronchospasm, and a short-acting bronchodilator (rescue inhaler) should always be available.

Use During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding:
Salmeterol is categorized as pregnancy category C, meaning risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is unknown whether salmeterol passes into breast milk; breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before using this medication.