Salmicort inhaler 25mcg, 250mcg

About Salmicort inhaler 25mcg, 250mcg

Salmicort Inhaler Uses

• Regular maintenance treatment of asthma in adults
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) symptom control
• Asthma that is not controlled by an inhaled steroid alone
• Reducing night time wheezing and flare ups

Salmicort Inhaler Benefits

• Two medicines in one inhaler, so fewer devices
• Long lasting airway opening for about 12 hours
• Lowers airway inflammation and flare up risk over time
• Twice daily schedule is simple to follow

What Experts Say

Salmicort combines salmeterol, a long acting beta agonist, with fluticasone propionate, an inhaled corticosteroid. Salmeterol relaxes airway muscles, while fluticasone reduces the swelling inside the airways. The 25/250 strength is a moderate to higher steroid dose chosen by a doctor. It is used every day even when breathing feels normal.

It is a controller inhaler and works only when used every day. It does not relieve a sudden attack, so a fast acting reliever such as salbutamol should always be kept at hand. Inhaler technique matters a great deal, and a spacer can help. Missing doses can allow symptoms to return.

The mouth should be rinsed after each dose to prevent thrush and hoarseness. The inhaler needs caution in heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease and diabetes, and should not be stopped suddenly. Regular follow ups help the doctor adjust the dose. Store it away from heat and check the dose counter.

Drug Class

• Long acting beta 2 agonist plus inhaled corticosteroid combination

Salmicort inhaler 25mcg, 250mcg formula

• Salmeterol
• Fluticasone propionate

Available forms

• Inhaler

How to use Salmicort inhaler 25mcg, 250mcg?

• Use Salmicort exactly as prescribed, usually two puffs twice daily.
• Shake the inhaler, breathe out fully, then inhale slowly while pressing the canister.
• Hold your breath for about ten seconds after each puff.
• Rinse your mouth with water and spit after every use.
• Do not stop suddenly and do not use it for a sudden attack.

Drug Interactions

• Ketoconazole, itraconazole and ritonavir: These strong CYP3A4 blockers raise fluticasone and salmeterol levels and can increase side effects.
• Beta blockers such as propranolol: These can block salmeterol and trigger wheezing.
• Diuretics and steroid tablets: Together they can lower potassium levels.
• Other long acting bronchodilators: Using two adds heart side effects without extra benefit.

Risks and warnings

• Not for sudden attacks: It does not work fast enough, so use a reliever inhaler for sudden breathlessness.
• Heart and thyroid conditions: Use with caution in heart rhythm problems, high blood pressure or overactive thyroid.
• Infections: Tell the doctor about tuberculosis or chest infections, as steroids can worsen them.
• Worsening breathing: Seek urgent care if wheezing increases right after a dose.
• Pregnancy: Use only if the doctor says the benefit is greater than the risk.

Salmicort Inhaler Side Effects

• Hoarse voice
• Oral thrush (white patches in the mouth)
• Throat irritation and cough
• Headache
• Hand tremors
• Fast heartbeat
• Muscle cramps

Storage Conditions

• Store below 30 degrees Celsius, away from heat and flame.
• Do not puncture or burn the canister even when empty.
• Keep the cap on and protect from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.