What does it do?

Salmeterol is used to treat symptoms of COPD. It opens narrowed airways in the lungs making it easier to breathe.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you use it?

Inhale salmeterol regularly as directed by your healthcare professional. It works best when you use it every day.
If you have asthma, salmeterol must be used with another ‘preventer’ (e.g. beclometasone, budesonide or fluticasone).

Accuhaler: Only slide the lever when you are ready to inhale the dose. If you do this more than once, you will only get one dose and the others will be lost.

If you need quick relief from breathing problems, use your ‘reliever’ medicine (e.g. salbutamol, terbutaline, ipratropium).

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and inhale your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, inhale the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not inhale two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Symptoms of a fast or irregular heartbeat including: fluttering, pounding or pain in your chest, dizziness or fainting	Tell your doctor
Shaking, muscle cramps	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Using inhalers can very rarely make breathing worse. Discuss this with your healthcare professional.