COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Serevent

USES: This drug relaxes the smooth muscle in the lungs and dilates airways to improve breathing. It is used in the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. The inhaler enables the drug to reach deep into the lungs for maximum benefit.

This medication is not to be used in an acute asthma attack.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: Make sure you understand how to use the inhaler properly. Shake the canister well before using. Place the canister near your mouth and exhale. Depress the spray as you inhale deeply. Hold your breath for a few seconds to allow the drug to be absorbed.

If more than one inhalation is prescribed, wait at least one full minute between inhalations.

Rinse your mouth after using to help prevent dryness and relieve throat irritation.

Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not use it more frequently without your doctor's approval. This medication should not be used more frequently than every 12 hours. Excessive use may result in a decrease in its effectiveness and an increase in its side effects.

You should use this medication 30 to 60 minutes before exercise when using it to prevent exercise-induced asthma.

If you find your symptoms do not improve or they worsen after using this, contact your doctor.

If you need to use 4 or more puffs daily or more than 1 inhaler every 8 weeks of a different, shorter-acting inhaler, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dry mouth, irritated throat, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, heartburn, loss of appetite, altered taste sensation, restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, trembling, and sweating may occur but should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor.

To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute.

Inform your doctor if you experience chest pain or pounding heartbeat.

In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history especially of heart disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid gland, epilepsy, diabetes and of any drug allergies.

This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all drugs you may use, both prescription and nonprescription including ¹¹beta-blockers¹¹ such as propranolol, labetalol and timolol.

Also mention all medications used to treat asthma or depression and of MAO inhibitor use (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine)

It is important to read carefully all labels on over-the-counter preparations, especially those used to treat colds or allergies. Do not use these without first consulting your doctor.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.

If you need to use 4 or more puffs of a shorter acting inhaler (such as albuterol) on a regular basis or if your need to use more than 1 of these shorter acting inhalers every 8 weeks, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

MISSED DOSE: Ask your doctor about what action to take if you should miss a dose. Do not 'double-up' the dose.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not puncture.