Therapeutic Segment: Anti-Asthmatic

Generic Name: Salbutamol sulphate

Available as:

Albuterol (also known as salbutamol) is used to prevent and treat wheezing and shortness of breath caused by breathing problems (such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It is also used to prevent asthma brought on by exercise. It is a quick-relief drug. Albuterol belongs to a class of drugs known as bronchodilators. It works in the airways by opening breathing passages and relaxing muscles.

• Asthma.

Seretide is prescribed for people whose asthma isn’t controlled by using a regular preventer inhaler (a corticosteroid) with a reliever inhaler (eg salbutamol) used when needed to open the airways.

Seretide doesn’t cure asthma – it’s used to help manage and control your asthma. Seretide should be used regularly, even when you have no asthma symptoms, to reduce the inflammation in the lungs and to help keep the airways open. You should still keep your reliever inhaler with you at all times in case you do have an asthma attack.

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Seretide is used for people with severe COPD who have repeated attacks of breathlessness, despite using long-acting bronchodilators such as formoterol or salmeterol on a regular basis. Only the Seretide 500 accuhaler is suitable for treating COPD.

• Combining two types of medication in Seretide, Inhaled Corticosteroids and Long-Acting Bronchodilators gives control of both inflammation and airway constriction.
• Note: Seretide should not be used to relieve a sudden attack of breathlessness or wheezing. If you get this sort of attack you must use a quick acting inhaler (e.g. Ventolin), also known as a reliever puffer. Always carry your blue Ventolin® reliever inhaler with you.
• Inhaled corticosteroids work to reduce lung inflammation. They are not the same as anabolic steroids some body-builders may use to build up their muscles and increase strength.
• It’s a myth that the longer you take your medications, the more medication you’ll need.
• If you feel you are getting breathless or wheezy more often than normal, or you are using your reliever inhaler more than usual, you should go to your doctor.
• Most people taking this medicine have no problems. But as with all medicines, a few people may find that it causes side effects. If you have any of the following symptoms soon after taking Seretide, STOP taking this medicine and tell your doctor immediately.
  • Sudden wheeziness and chest pain or tightness.
  • Swelling of eyelids, face or lips.
  • Lumpy skin rash or “hives” anywhere on the body.

  Also tell your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Headache, muscle cramps, skin rash or trembling, increase in pulse rate or irregular heartbeat.

  Very rarely the person taking the medicine may feel anxious, have disturbed sleep or notice an increased irritability (mainly in children).

  Consult your doctor if you are worried about yourself or your child.

  This is not a complete list of side-effects. If you have any other unexpected effects or symptoms that you do not understand, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

CLASS: Anti-Asthmatics

Indications:  Asthma,  Congestion, COPD