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.

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

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: Make sure you understand how to use the device properly and how this medication should be used in relation to other asthma drugs. Refer to the illustrated directions provided by the manufacturer for instructions on the correct use of this device. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if there is anything in the illustration you do not understand.

Always activate and use this device in a level, horizontal position.

Usually, this medicine is used twice daily, (one inhalation in the morning and one in the evening) or use as directed by your doctor. Do not use it more frequently without your doctor's approval.

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

Never exhale into the device. Do not use with a spacer. Never wash the mouthpiece or any part of the device. It must be kept dry.

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

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

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 '¹beta-blockers' 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: If you need to use 4 or more puffs of a shorter acting inhaler (such as albuterol) on a regular basis, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not share this medication with others.

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 68 and 77 degrees F (between 20 and 25 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not store the device for later use. Discard it after every blister has been used or 6 weeks after opening foil pouch, whichever comes first. Keep out of children's reach.