Seretide

Seretide

Seretide inhalers are used by people with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary syndrome (COPD).

In most cases, inhalers fit into one of two categories; relievers and preventers.

Relievers, such as Ventolin, are used to relieve a sudden onset of asthma symptoms, such as wheezing and tightness of the chest after exercise. Reliever inhalers usually contain bronchodilators, which quickly relieve inflammation in the lungs.

Preventers, such as Qvar and Clenil Modulite, are taken once or twice a day to prevent asthmatic symptoms. Preventer inhalers often contain a long-acting steroid known as a corticosteroid, which prevents inflammation from developing in the lungs.

Seretide contains both a long-acting corticosteroid, called fluticasone, and a bronchodilator called salmeterol. Together, these active ingredients prevent and relieve symptoms commonly associated with asthma and COPD. Despite this, Seretide is classed as a reliever inhaler and is taken twice a day to prevent asthmatic symptoms, such as bronchospasm, from developing.

How do I take Seretide?

It is important to take Seretide as instructed by your doctor or asthma nurse. Your doctor or asthma nurse may arrange regular appointments to review your condition and the effectiveness of your treatment.

The typical dose of Seretide is one inhalation twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening.

If you are unsure how to take Seretide, speak to your doctor.

How to use Seretide Accuhaler

Seretide Accuhalers are circular devices which deliver a metered powdered dose of Seretide. Each Accuhaler holds 60 doses of Seretide.

Before you use the Accuhaler, check the small window on the Accuhaler to see how many doses are left.

1. To open your Accuhaler, hold the dark purple portion of your Accuhaler with one hand and rotate light purple with your thumb as far as it will go. You should hear a click. This will reveal a mouthpiece and a small lever.
2. Push the lever back until it locks into place with a click. This releases the medicine into the mouthpiece. It is important to hold your Accuhaler upright to prevent the medicine from falling out.
3. Hold the Accuhaler away from your face and breath out as far as possible. Do not breathe into your inhaler.
4. Place the mouthpiece between your lips and breath in deeply and steadily through your mouth. Do not breathe in through your nose.
5. Remove the Accuhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for 10 seconds.
6. Slowly breathe out through your mouth.
7. Close the Accuhaler by sliding the thumb grip back as far as it will go until you hear a click. Closing the Accuhaler resets the lever.

Always rinse your mouth out with water after taking your Seretide Accuhaler. Corticosteroid inhalers can increase your risk of oral thrush.

Do not attempt to dismantle or service your Accuhaler as this can damage the mechanism inside.

Do not play with the mechanism by opening and closing the Accuhaler as this wastes medicine.

What should I do if I forget to take Seretide when I should?

If you forget to take Seretide, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take Seretide at your usual time.

Do not take more Seretide to make up for the dose you missed.

What should I do if I accidentally take more Seretide than I should?

If you accidentally take more Seretide than you should, inform your doctor. Taking more Seretide may increase your risk of experiencing side effects.