Seroflo

Seroflo (Salmeterol/Fluticasone) is used to treat people with asthma and other chest illnesses. The Salmeterol relaxes the muscles in the walls of the small air passages in the lungs. This helps to open the airways and makes it easier for air to get in and out of the lungs. Fluticasone propionate is one of a group of medicines called corticosteriods which are often referred to simply as steroids. Corticosteroids are used to treat breathing problems because they have an anti-inflammatory action. Corticosteroids also help to prevent attacks of asthma.

The medicine in the Seroflo (Salmeterol/Fluticasone) should be inhaled into your lungs. If you have any difficulties or do not understand the instructions ask your physician or pharmacist. Seroflo (Salmeterol/Fluticasone) must only be breathed in through the mouth.

Take your medicine as your physician has told you. The label on it will usually tell you how much to take and how often (two doses daily for most cases). If you are not sure ask your physician or pharmacist.

Most people taking this medicine find that it causes no problems. As with all medicines, a few people may find that it causes side effects. Some people can be allergic to medicines. If you have any of the following symptoms soon after taking Seroflo, STOP taking this medicine and tell your physician immediately.

Sudden wheeziness and chest pain or tightness. Swelling of eyelids, face or lips Lumpy skin rash or "hives" anywhere on the body. Some people very occasionally find that their mouth, throat or tongue becomes sore or that their voice becomes hoarse after inhaling this medicine. Gargling with water and spitting it out immediately after each dose may help. Tell your physician but do not stop treatment unless told to do so. Also tell your physician if you have any of the following symptoms - Headache, muscle cramps, pains in joints, skin rash or trembling, increase in pulse rate or irregular heartbeat. It is possible that in some patients, particularly those taking higher doses of this type of medication, may very rarely suffer from the following side effects - Rounded face, loss of bone density, eye problems and slowing of growth in children. Consult your physician if you are worried about yourself or your children. Very rarely the person taking the medicine may feel anxious, have disturbed sleep or notice an increased irritability (mainly in children). If you have any other symptoms that you do not understand, tell your physician or pharmacist.

If you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions tell your doctor about this before taking your medicine.

• Are you pregnant or likely to become pregnant soon?
• Are you breast-feeding?
• Have you been told you are allergic to salmeterol xinafoate?
• Have you been told that you are allergic to fluticasone propionate?
• Have you ever had thrush in your mouth?
• Are you being or have you ever been treated for tuberculosis (TB)?
• Are you having treatment for a thyroid condition? Are you having treatment for high blood pressure or a heart problem?
• Are you taking ritonavir, a medicine used in the treatment of HIV (AIDS)?

Make sure your doctor knows what other medicines you are taking, including those that you have bought yourself from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.

Do not use Seroflo (Salmeterol/Fluticasone) after the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack. If you use it after the expiry date has passed, it may not work as well. Do not use Seroflo if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering. If you`re not sure whether you should be using Seroflo, talk to your doctor.