Seroflo 25 Mcg/250 Mcg Synchrobreathe

SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE

Name

• Brand Name: SEROFLO Synchrobreathe 25 mcg/250 mcg

Composition

SEROFLO Synchrobreathe contains two active ingredients:

• Salmeterol: 25 mcg. Salmeterol is a long-acting beta2-adrenergic receptor agonist (LABA) that helps relax the muscles in the airways, increasing airflow to the lungs.
• Fluticasone Propionate: 250 mcg. Fluticasone Propionate is a synthetic corticosteroid with potent anti-inflammatory activity, which reduces swelling and irritation in the airways.

Uses

SEROFLO Synchrobreathe is prescribed for the long-term management and control of respiratory conditions.

• Asthma: It is used for the regular treatment of asthma symptoms in adults and children aged 4 years and older who require a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and a LABA. It helps prevent and relieve symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): It is also used in patients with severe COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, to control and minimize symptoms such as wheezing, dyspnea, coughing, and chest tightness.

Dosage and Administration

SEROFLO Synchrobreathe is an inhalation-only medication and should not be swallowed. It should be used regularly as prescribed by a doctor, even when asymptomatic, for optimal benefit.

• Typical Dosage: For adults and adolescents 12 years and over, and children 4 years and older with asthma or COPD, the typical dosage is two inhalations twice daily.
• Administration:
  • Shake the inhaler well before use.
  • Breathe out normally as far as comfortable.
  • Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and close your lips around it.
  • Inhale deeply; the Synchrobreathe device automatically releases a dose as you breathe in.
  • Remove the inhaler and hold your breath for about 10 seconds or as long as comfortable, then breathe out slowly.
  • Repeat for the second puff if prescribed.
  • Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use to help prevent fungal infections in the mouth and throat.
• Important Note: This medicine does not work immediately and should not be used to treat sudden asthma attacks; a fast-acting bronchodilator (rescue inhaler) is required for acute symptoms.

Side Effects

Common side effects are usually temporary and may include:

• Nasopharyngitis (common cold symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, sore throat)
• Throat irritation, hoarseness, and voice changes
• Headache
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Nausea, vomiting
• Muscle, bone, or joint pain
• Cough
• Increased heart rate, tremors, palpitations

Serious side effects are less common but may include:

• Bronchospasm (wheezing or tightening of airways) immediately after use (take the first dose under medical supervision).
• Systemic corticosteroid effects with prolonged high doses, potentially leading to adrenal suppression.
• Hypokalemia (low blood potassium levels).
• Increased blood glucose levels, particularly in diabetic patients.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not use if allergic to fluticasone, salmeterol, or any other ingredients.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have tuberculosis, heart conditions (including rhythm abnormalities or high blood pressure), diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts, hyperthyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, bone diseases (like osteoporosis), liver or kidney problems, or any fungal, bacterial, parasitic, or viral infections.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. Use during pregnancy should only be considered if the benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if ingredients pass into breast milk.
• Alcohol: Limited information on alcohol interaction; consult your doctor.
• Drug Interactions:
  • CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Potent inhibitors like ritonavir, ketoconazole, and itraconazole may increase the risk of systemic corticosteroid and cardiovascular adverse effects.
  • Beta-blockers: Non-selective and selective beta-blockers should generally be avoided as they can block the pulmonary effect of salmeterol and lead to severe bronchospasm.
  • Diuretics: Non-potassium-sparing diuretics may cause ECG changes and/or hypokalemia, which can be worsened by beta-agonists.
• Children: Not recommended for children less than four years of age.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: If you experience drowsiness or an increased/uneven heart rate, avoid driving or operating machinery.

Storage

• Store at room temperature, ideally below 25°C or 30°C.
• Keep the inhaler upright, with the mouthpiece facing downwards.
• Protect from direct sunlight, heat, and open flames.
• Do not puncture or burn the canister, even if it appears empty.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE, along with concise answers:

What is SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE used for?

SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE is primarily used for the long-term management and control of asthma symptoms in adults and children over 4 years old. It is also prescribed for the maintenance treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, to improve breathing and reduce symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness.

How does SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE work?

This medicine is a combination of two active ingredients: Salmeterol (25 mcg) and Fluticasone Propionate (250 mcg). Salmeterol is a long-acting beta2-adrenergic receptor agonist (LABA) that works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, widening them to improve airflow. Fluticasone Propionate is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and irritation in the lungs by stopping the release of chemical messengers that cause swelling. Together, these actions make breathing easier.

What is the usual dosage for SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE?

For adults and adolescents 12 years and over, the typical dosage for SEROFLO 250 SYNCHROBREATHE is two inhalations twice daily. The dosage for children aged 4 years and older using SEROFLO 50 SYNCHROBREATHE is also two inhalations twice daily. It is crucial to follow your doctor's prescribed dosage, as it may vary based on individual factors, and never exceed it without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE?

Common side effects may include nasopharyngitis (common cold), throat irritation, headache, upper respiratory tract infection, hoarseness of voice, muscle cramps, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth). Rinsing your mouth with water after each use can help prevent oral thrush. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should consult your doctor.

Is SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE should be used with caution and only if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs any potential risk to the fetus. Pregnant women with asthma should be closely monitored. For breastfeeding mothers, it is unknown whether the ingredients pass into breast milk, so its use should only be considered if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the child. Always consult your doctor for advice.

Can SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE be taken with other medications?

SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE can interact with certain medications. For instance, potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (like ritonavir, ketoconazole, and itraconazole), beta-blockers (such as metoprolol and propranolol), and non-potassium-sparing diuretics may increase the risk of adverse effects. It is essential to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken when using SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE?

This inhaler is not intended for sudden asthma attacks; you should always have a quick-relief inhaler available for acute symptoms. It's important to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use to help prevent fungal infections in the mouth and throat. Use with caution if you have underlying conditions like tuberculosis, heart conditions, adrenal insufficiency, bone diseases (such as osteoporosis), diabetes mellitus, hypokalemia, or thyroid issues. Do not stop using the inhaler without your doctor's advice.

What happens if a dose of SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE is missed?

If you forget to take your regular dose, administer it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.

How should SEROFLO 25 MCG/250 MCG SYNCHROBREATHE be stored?

Store your SEROFLO Synchrobreathe inhaler at room temperature, ideally below 25°C or 30°C. Keep it upright with the mouthpiece facing downwards. Protect it from direct sunlight, heat, and open flames. The canister is pressurized, so do not puncture or burn it, even if it appears empty. Always keep this inhaler out of the reach of children and pets.