SEROFLO 250

# Fluticasone Propionate 250 mcg + Salmeterol 50 mcg ## SHORT DESCRIPTION Fluticasone Propionate 250 mcg + Salmeterol 50 mcg is a **combination inhaled medicine** containing an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA). It is used as a **maintenance treatment for asthma and certain patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)**. Fluticasone reduces inflammation and swelling in the airways, while salmeterol helps relax airway muscles and keeps the airways open for an extended period. **This medicine is a maintenance inhaler and is not intended for immediate relief of a sudden asthma or breathing attack.** ## KEY BENEFITS * Helps control airway inflammation * Helps keep the airways open for longer * Improves breathing and reduces airway narrowing * Helps reduce wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath associated with asthma * Helps reduce the frequency of asthma symptoms when used regularly * May improve symptom control in appropriate patients with COPD * Combines an inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting bronchodilator in one inhaler ## USES / INDICATIONS Fluticasone Propionate + Salmeterol may be prescribed for: * **Maintenance treatment of asthma** * Long-term control of asthma symptoms * Prevention of asthma symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath * **Maintenance treatment of COPD** in appropriate patients * Reduction of airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction It is not intended to treat an acute bronchospasm or sudden breathing attack. ## HOW IT WORKS ### Fluticasone Propionate Fluticasone propionate is an **inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)**. It reduces inflammation, swelling and mucus production in the airways, helping make the airways less sensitive and easier to keep open. ### Salmeterol Salmeterol is a **long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA)**. It stimulates beta-2 receptors in airway muscles, causing them to relax and helping maintain airway opening for approximately 12 hours or longer. ### Combined Action The two medicines work together to provide long-term control: **Fluticasone → reduces airway inflammation** **Salmeterol → relaxes airway muscles and maintains bronchodilation** ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION * Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. * This medicine is generally taken **regularly every day**, even when you feel well. * The exact number of inhalations depends on the prescribed product and your condition. * Follow the instructions specific to your inhaler device. * Do not exceed the prescribed dose. * Use the inhaler with the correct technique. * Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each dose to reduce the risk of oral thrush and throat irritation. * Do not stop regular treatment suddenly without medical advice. ### Important **Do not use this inhaler as your rescue medicine during a sudden asthma attack.** Keep your prescribed rapid-acting rescue inhaler available for acute symptoms. ### Missed Dose If you miss a dose, take it when remembered unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take extra inhalations to make up for a missed dose. ## SIDE EFFECTS Common side effects may include: * Hoarseness * Throat irritation * Headache * Cough * Dry mouth * Oral thrush * Tremor * Muscle cramps * Palpitations * Nervousness Rinsing and spitting after inhalation can help reduce oral and throat side effects. ### Serious Side Effects Seek medical attention if you experience: * Severe difficulty breathing immediately after inhalation * Rapid or irregular heartbeat * Severe allergic reaction * Significant worsening of asthma symptoms * Chest pain * Severe tremor * Symptoms of adrenal suppression * Vision changes or eye pain ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS * **Not a rescue inhaler.** Do not rely on this medicine for sudden breathing attacks. * Keep a fast-acting rescue inhaler available as prescribed. * Use regularly even when symptoms are controlled, unless your doctor changes the treatment. * Rinse your mouth and spit after each inhalation. * Long-term corticosteroid use may increase the risk of **oral thrush, reduced bone density, cataracts and glaucoma**. * Prolonged treatment may rarely affect adrenal function. * Salmeterol may cause tremor, palpitations or changes in heart rate. * Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disorders or low potassium levels. * Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma or cataracts. * Tell your doctor if you have tuberculosis or other untreated respiratory infections. * Do not use more frequently than prescribed. * If asthma symptoms suddenly worsen or your rescue inhaler is needed more often, seek medical advice promptly. * Children and adolescents should use this medicine only according to appropriate medical advice and product labeling. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Fluticasone Propionate + Salmeterol may interact with: * Other LABA-containing medicines * Other inhaled corticosteroids * Beta-blockers * Diuretics * Monoamine oxidase inhibitors * Tricyclic antidepressants * Other medicines that affect heart rhythm * Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir and some other medicines * Certain medicines that can lower potassium levels **Do not use another long-acting bronchodilator containing a LABA at the same time unless specifically prescribed.** Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, OTC medicines, inhalers and supplements you use. ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep the inhaler away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. * Do not freeze the inhaler unless the specific product instructions state otherwise. * Keep the inhaler dry. * Keep out of reach of children. * Do not use after the expiry date. * Follow the specific storage requirements for the inhaler device and formulation. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Fluticasone Propionate 250 mcg + Salmeterol 50 mcg is generally a prescription medicine.** It should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional because the appropriate dose and inhaler device depend on the patient's condition and treatment history. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE For safe and genuine Fluticasone Propionate + Salmeterol: * Purchase from a licensed and reputable pharmacy. * Check the medicine name, strength and inhaler type. * Verify the manufacturer's details. * Check the batch number and expiry date. * Ensure the inhaler and packaging are intact. * Do not purchase inhalers from unauthorized sources. * Follow the manufacturer's storage instructions. * Consult a pharmacist if you have concerns about product authenticity. ## FAQ ### What is Fluticasone Propionate 250 mcg + Salmeterol 50 mcg used for? It is a **maintenance inhaler used for long-term control of asthma** and, in appropriate patients, COPD. It helps reduce airway inflammation and keeps the airways open. ### Is Fluticasone Propionate + Salmeterol a steroid inhaler? Yes. Fluticasone propionate is an **inhaled corticosteroid**. Salmeterol is a long-acting bronchodilator. ### Is this inhaler used for asthma? Yes. The combination is used for long-term asthma control when an inhaled corticosteroid plus a LABA is appropriate. ### Can this medicine treat COPD? Fluticasone and salmeterol combinations may be used for maintenance treatment of COPD in appropriate patients, depending on the specific product and local approval. ### Is Fluticasone + Salmeterol a rescue inhaler? **No.** It is a maintenance inhaler and should not be used to provide rapid relief during a sudden asthma attack. ### What should I use during a sudden asthma attack? Use the **rapid-acting rescue inhaler prescribed by your healthcare professional**. If symptoms are severe or do not improve promptly, seek emergency medical care. ### How does Fluticasone Propionate work? Fluticasone reduces inflammation and swelling in the airways, helping prevent airway narrowing and improve long-term symptom control. ### How does Salmeterol work? Salmeterol relaxes the muscles surrounding the airways and provides prolonged bronchodilation, helping keep the airways open. ### How often should I use this inhaler? The dosing schedule depends on the specific product and your doctor's prescription. Use it regularly according to the prescribed schedule. ### Should I use this inhaler when I feel well? Yes, unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise. Maintenance therapy is generally taken regularly to help prevent symptoms. ### Can I stop using it when my asthma improves? Do not stop or reduce treatment without discussing it with your doctor. Your healthcare professional can determine whether your treatment should be adjusted. ### Why should I rinse my mouth after using this inhaler? Rinsing and spitting after inhalation helps reduce the risk of **oral thrush, mouth irritation and hoarseness** caused by the inhaled corticosteroid. ### Can Fluticasone + Salmeterol cause oral thrush? Yes. Inhaled corticosteroids can increase the risk of oral fungal infections. Good inhaler technique and rinsing the mouth after use can reduce this risk. ### Can this medicine cause shaking or a fast heartbeat? Salmeterol can sometimes cause **tremor, palpitations or an increased heart rate**. Contact your doctor if these effects are severe or persistent. ### Can I use another inhaler with Fluticasone + Salmeterol? Some inhalers may be used alongside it, including a prescribed rescue inhaler. However, avoid using another LABA-containing medicine unless your doctor specifically recommends it. ### Can I take Fluticasone + Salmeterol during pregnancy? Discuss its use with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Your healthcare professional will weigh the benefits of controlling asthma against potential risks. ### Can I use this inhaler while breastfeeding? Consult your healthcare professional before use while breastfeeding. ### Can children use Fluticasone + Salmeterol? Use in children depends on the specific product, strength, inhaler device and age. It should be prescribed and monitored by an appropriate healthcare professional. ### Does Fluticasone + Salmeterol cure asthma? No. Asthma is a chronic condition. This medicine helps **control symptoms and reduce airway inflammation**, but it does not cure the underlying condition. ### What happens if I miss a dose? Take the missed dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not take extra doses to compensate. ### What happens if I use too much Fluticasone + Salmeterol? Excessive use can increase the risk of side effects such as tremor, rapid heartbeat, low potassium and corticosteroid-related effects. Seek medical advice if you have taken substantially more than prescribed. ### When should I contact my doctor? Contact your doctor if your asthma symptoms are worsening, your rescue inhaler is needed more frequently, your usual dose is no longer controlling symptoms, or you develop persistent side effects. ### How should Fluticasone + Salmeterol be stored? Store the inhaler according to the manufacturer's instructions, protecting it from excessive heat, direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. **Fluticasone Propionate 250 mcg + Salmeterol 50 mcg is a prescription maintenance inhaler and should be used exactly as directed by a qualified healthcare professional.** It is not intended for rapid relief of acute bronchospasm or a sudden asthma attack. Patients should have an appropriate rapid-acting rescue medicine available when prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dose or combine it with another LABA-containing medicine unless specifically directed. Seek prompt medical attention if breathing suddenly worsens, the rescue inhaler is not providing adequate relief, or severe allergic or cardiovascular symptoms occur.