Serevent (salmeterol) is medication used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) like emphysema. It is also used to prevent asthma exacerbations. According to MedlinePlus, Serevent is a long-acting beta-agonist that works to relax your airway muscles and, subsequently, make breathing easier. Serevent is an oral inhalation medication typically used twice a day or as your doctor prescribes.
Common Side Effects
In a placebo-controlled trial study of 149 patients receiving 50mcg of Serevent twice daily, the National Library of Medicine found that 9 percent experienced nasal congestion and paleness, 5 percent developed rhinitis (allergy symptoms), 13 percent suffered from a headache, 3 percent had an asthma exacerbation, 7 percent developed bronchitis and 5 percent developed the flu. Drugs.com indicates that Serevent can also cause nausea, vomiting and drowsiness. Vomiting can cause dehydration, so drink eight to nine full glasses of water daily in order to rehydrate your body. Serevent can also cause dry mouth and throat irritation. As an inhalation medication, Serevent's ingredients can irritate your mouth and throat. Inform your physician when these side effects remain for three to five days.
Serious Side Effects
According to the National Library of Medicine, Serevent can increase your risk for an asthma exacerbation that results in death. Signs of severe asthma attack include trouble breathing, audible wheezing, and cyanosis (turning blue) of your lips, fingernails and toenails. This is a medical emergency, so go to your nearest hospital. Serevent can also cause paradoxical bronchospasm, a condition in which your airways suddenly constrict when Serevent is supposed to dilate them. According to MedlinePlus, Serevent can also cause chest pain, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and hoarseness. Dysphagia can lead to choking on food and your own saliva. Go to the hospital at the first sign of these symptoms.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Serevent if you are allergic to salmeterol or any other long-acting beta-agonists. You can develop such potentially fatal complications as difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of your throat or face.
It is important to tell your doctor if you suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and liver or thyroid problems. Serevent can exacerbate these conditions.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as Serevent may potentially harm your baby. Your doctor will assess the risks and benefits of continuing Serevent.
Avoid combining Serevent with such medications as isocarboxacid, clarithromycin, atelenol and atazanavir. The combination of Serevent with these medications can lead to the aforementioned side effects.
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