Seretide Accuhaler

Seretide Accuhaler (Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol Xinafoate) is used to treat people with asthma and other chest illnesses. The Salmeterol relaxes the muscles in the walls of the small air passages in the lungs. This helps to open the airways and makes it easier for air to get in and out of the lungs. Fluticasone propionate is one of a group of medicines called corticosteriods which are often referred to simply as steroids. Corticosteroids are used to treat breathing problems because they have an anti-inflammatory action. Corticosteroids also help to prevent attacks of asthma.

Seretide Accuhaler (Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol Xinafoate) should be inhaled into your lungs. If you have any difficulties or do not understand the instructions ask your physician or pharmacist. It must only be breathed in through the mouth. Always take your medicine as your physician has told you. The label on it will usually tell you how much to take and how often (two doses daily for most cases). If you are not sure ask your physician or pharmacist.

Most people taking Seretide (Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol Xinafoate) find that it causes no problems. As with all medicines, a few people may find that it causes side effects. Some people can be allergic to medicines. If you have any of the following symptoms soon after taking this medicine, stop taking this medicine and tell your physician immediately.

• sudden wheeziness
• chest pain or tightness
• swelling of eyelids, face or lips
• skin rash or hives on the body

Some people very occasionally find that their mouth, throat or tongue becomes sore or that their voice becomes hoarse after inhaling this medicine. Gargling with water and spitting it out immediately after each dose may help.

Tell your physician but do not stop treatment unless told to do so. Also tell your physician if you have any of the following symptoms:

• headache
• muscle cramps
• pains in joints
• skin rash or trembling
• increase in pulse rate
• irregular heartbeat

It is possible that in some patients, particularly those taking higher doses of this type of medication, may very rarely suffer from rounded face, loss of bone density, eye problems and slowing of growth in children.

Consult your physician if you are worried about yourself or your children. Very rarely the person taking the medicine may feel anxious, have disturbed sleep or notice an increased irritability (mainly in children). If you have any other symptoms that you do not understand, tell your physician or pharmacist.

Make sure your physician knows what other medicines you are taking, including those that you have bought yourself from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.

Do not use Seretide (Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol Xinafoate) after the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack. If you use it after the expiry date has passed, it may not work as well.

Do not use this medicine if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering. If you`re not sure whether you should be using it, talk to your physician.