Serevent Diskus

/ GSK

Serevent Diskus is not a replacement for inhaled or oral corticosteroids which should be continued at the same dose, and not stopped or reduced, when treatment with Serevent Diskus is initiated.
Serevent Diskus is for inhalation use only.
Serevent Diskus should be used regularly. The full benefits of treatment will be apparent after several doses of the drug.
In asthma
Adults (including the elderly): One inhalation (50 micrograms) twice daily, increasing to two inhalations (2 x 50 micrograms) twice daily if required.
Children 4 years and over: One inhalation (50 micrograms) twice daily.
The dosage or frequency of administration should only be increased on medical advice.
There are insufficient clinical data to recommend the use of Serevent Diskus in children under the age of four.
In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Adults (including the elderly): One inhalation (50 micrograms) twice daily.
Children: Not appropriate.
Special patient groups: There is no need to adjust the dose in patients with impaired renal function.
Using the Diskus: The Diskus should be used in a standing or sitting position. The device is opened and primed by sliding the lever. The mouthpiece is then placed in the mouth and the lips closed round it. The dose can then be inhaled and the device closed.

Reversible airways obstruction (including nocturnal asthma and prevention of excercise-induced asthma) in patients requiring long-term regular bronchodilator therapy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Hypersensitivity to any ingredient of the preparation.

Acute airway obstruction, thyrotoxicosis, cardiovascular impairment, hypertension.

Pharmacologically predictable extra-pulmonary effects of beta2-adrenoceptor agonists and respiratory related disorders such as asthma and acute nasopharyngitis. Tremor, subjective palpitations and headache have been reported, but tend to be transient and to reduce with regular therapy. Cardiac arrhythmias and tachycardia may occur in some patients. Potentially serious hypokalemia, paradoxical bronchospasm. Arthralgia, hypersensitivity reactions including rash edema and angioedema. Oropharyngeal irritation. Less frequent reports of muscle cramps, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

Non-selective and selective beta-blockers should be avoided in patients with reversible obstructive airways disease unless there are are compelling reasons for their use. Caution is advised in the co-administration of beta-agonist with non-potassium sparing diuretics.