Salmeterol belongs to a class of medications called long-acting beta-2 agonists. It can relax the smooth muscle of the airways to treat asthma, prophylaxis of exercise-induced asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Salmeterol is also used in combination with fluticasone as Seretide to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
In Hong Kong, Salmeterol is taken through oral inhalation from dry powder inhaler and metered-dose inhaler. For use in chronic asthma, it should be used with inhaled corticosteroids.
Chronic asthma
Adult and elderly
50-100 mcg twice daily.
Child above 4 years of age
50 mcg twice daily.
Prophylaxis of exercise-induced asthma
Child above 4 years of age, adult and elderly
50 mcg at least 30 minutes prior to exercise.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Adult and elderly
50 mcg twice daily.
Common side effects of Salmeterol include headache, pain, influenza, nasal congestion and conjunctivitis.
Common dosing schedule:
Inhaled Salmeterol is taken twice daily or when needed before exercise. Notice the two doses have to be at least 12 hours apart.
Therefore, it is suggested to take it before work and after dinner.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Salmeterol may interact with:
Salmeterol may interact with many other medications. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Salmeterol is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Salmeterol in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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