Currently available on the market, Seretide 25/125 is formulated as an inhaler for both children and adults to treat respiratory diseases. How should a Seretide inhaler be used, and what is the dosage?
1. Ingredients of Seretide 25/125
Each 120-dose inhaler of Seretide 25/125 contains:
- Salmeterol 25 mcg
- Fluticasone propionate 125 mcg
- Excipients sufficient quantity
Effects of each ingredient:
- Salmeterol: This active ingredient is a highly selective beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist with a prolonged effect lasting up to 12 hours after use. Its advantage lies in providing longer-lasting bronchodilation compared to regular beta-2 agonists. Therefore, it is suitable for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
- Fluticasone propionate: A corticosteroid with potent anti-inflammatory effects in the lungs when inhaled at a treating dose, reducing symptoms and acute exacerbations in asthma. Additionally, inhaled form typically does not cause the side effects associated with oral corticosteroids.
With these ingredients, Seretide 25/125 is indicated for the treatment of asthma. It is also used to manage airway obstruction and reduce acute exacerbations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
2. Dosage of Seretide 25/125
Since Seretide 25/125 is formulated as an inhaler, users should follow these guidelines:
- Shake the inhaler right before each use to ensure the medication is evenly distributed.
- Gently press the sides of the cap to remove the mouthpiece cover.
- Place your thumb under the base of the inhaler, below the mouthpiece, and hold the inhaler upright.
- Exhale completely.
- Insert the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips around it. Be careful not to bite the mouthpiece.
- Press the top of the inhaler to release the medication while taking a deep breath in.
- Hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale normally. If you need a second dose, place the mouthpiece in your mouth again, keep the inhaler upright, wait for half a minute, and repeat the process.
- Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to clean your mouth.
- Finally, immediately replace the mouthpiece cover in its original position.
The dosage of Seretide inhaler varies for different individuals:
- Children aged 4 years and older: One puff of 25/50, twice a day. The maximum dose for fluticasone propionate is 100 mcg, twice a day.
- Individuals aged 12 years and older: One puff of 25/50, 25/125, or 25/250 twice a day. The maximum dose is 50/500, twice a day.
- COPD patients: For adults, the dose is two puffs of 25/125 or 25/250, twice a day. The 50/500 dose, taken twice a day, has been proven to reduce the risk of mortality from any cause.
3. Precautions when using Seretide 25
3.1 Contraindications when using Seretide 25
Although Seretide 25 provides many benefits in treating diseases, certain individuals should not use it:
- Patients are allergic or sensitive to any components of the medication.
- Initial treatment of asthma or acute exacerbations of bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), when intensive treatment is required.
- If necessary, it should only be used as directed by a specialist doctor.
3.2 Possible side effects when using the medication
According to evaluations, Seretide 25 is quite safe and well-tolerated. However, some patients may still experience side effects. Although these are generally not severe, patients should be aware:
- Bronchitis.
- Oral and throat Candida infections.
- Pneumonia (commonly seen in COPD patients).
- Hypokalemia.
- Headache.
- Nasal and throat inflammation.
- Muscle cramps, joint pain, fractures.
Most of these side effects will resolve on their own after completing the treatment. If these adverse reactions persist and affect daily life, patients should consult with a doctor for appropriate guidance.
3.3 Special precautions when using the medication
Although there is not enough research on the effects of Seretide 25 on fetuses and young children, it is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women avoid using this medication unless directed by a specialist doctor.
For acute asthma attacks, the use of this medication may need to be combined with other medications to ensure high efficacy.
Do not increase or decrease the dosage on your own, as this can have significant impacts on the patient's health. It may cause side effects such as tremors, palpitations, chest pain, or chest tightness.
Store the medication in a dry place to avoid moisture, which can affect the medication's integrity.
After completing the treatment course, patients should have their health re-checked before choosing to take the next dose.
Seretide 25 is currently available at many pharmacies, and you can purchase it directly there or at hospital pharmacies.
These are all the important details about the Seretide 25 inhaler. However, it cannot replace the advice of doctors and pharmacists. Therefore, if there are any further questions, patients should consult their doctor for appropriate guidance.
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