Uses of Fluticasone+Salmeterol

The combination of Fluticasone+Salmeterol is used to manage the symptoms of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It also helps in reducing the flare-ups of COPD symptoms.

Therapeutic Category

Fluticasone: Corticosteroids

Salmeterol: Bronchodilators

How Fluticasone+Salmeterol works

Fluticasone is an inhalation corticosteroid. It blocks the release of certain chemical messengers in the airways (such as prostaglandins, leukotrienes) that cause inflammation and swelling.

Salmeterol is a bronchodilator. It relaxes the smooth muscles of the airways and widens them. Together they reduce airway inflammation, allows the air to pass through more freely and makes breathing easier.

Common side effects of Fluticasone+Salmeterol

• headache
• common cold
• thrush in the mouth or throat (a yeast infection that causes sore, creamy-yellow, raised patches)
• sore tongue, hoarse voice, throat irritation
• muscle pain or cramps
• joint pain and swelling
• bruising and fractures
• inflammation of sinuses
• signs of low levels of potassium in blood (such as an uneven heartbeat, muscle weakness or cramps)

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• severe allergic reactions (such as sudden wheezing, cough, shortness of breath, skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, breathing difficulties, sudden fast heartbeat which can cause fainting, light-headedness, collapse or even loss of consciousness)
• sign of pneumonia (a lung infection accompanied with fever, chills, increased cough production, increased breathing difficulties, excessive mucus production and change in mucus color) 
  

Health Tips for Fluticasone+Salmeterol

• Take Fluticasone+Salmeterol as advised by your physician. Strictly follow the dosing schedule as instructed by your physician
• Do not stop taking Fluticasone+Salmeterol once your symptoms subside without consulting your doctor, as it may make your symptoms reappear once again
• Make sure to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out or brush your teeth once inhalation is over
• Do not start using this medicine unless your doctor or health care provider has taught you how to use it and you understand how to use it correctly
• Fluticasone+Salmeterol is only used to prevent or manage the symptoms of asthma. If your asthma or breathing gets worse suddenly, contact your doctor immediately or go to the hospital straight away
• Before using Fluticasone+Salmeterol, inform your doctor if you have any lung infections, liver problems or heart problems, diabetes, hypertension, fits, overactive thyroid functions, osteoporosis, adrenal gland problems or a weak immune system as a precaution
• You must also inform your doctor before taking Fluticasone + Salmeterol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding