Fluticasone and salmeterol is a combination medication used to control asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, while salmeterol is a long-acting beta agonist (LABA) that relaxes airway muscles for easier breathing. This combination helps prevent symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Dosage and Direction
The medication is typically administered via an inhaler or dry powder inhaler (DPI) twice daily. It should be used regularly to maintain control, not for sudden asthma attacks. Rinse your mouth with water after each use to prevent fungal infections (oral thrush).

Precautions
Inform your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, diabetes, or a history of seizures. Do not use this medication for acute bronchospasm relief—always have a rescue inhaler available. Monitor growth in pediatric patients and watch for signs of adrenal suppression with long-term use.

Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to fluticasone, salmeterol, or milk proteins (if using a dry powder inhaler containing lactose). It is not intended for primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes. Avoid abrupt discontinuation without medical advice.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include hoarseness, throat irritation, headache, and cough. More serious side effects may include increased risk of asthma-related death (with LABAs when not used with steroids), adrenal suppression, or infection. Notify your doctor if you experience breathing difficulty, chest pain, or vision changes.

Drug Interaction
This combination may interact with antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole), HIV protease inhibitors, beta-blockers, and other corticosteroids. It may increase the effect of stimulants or other bronchodilators. Always inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Missed Dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time of your next dose. Do not take extra doses to make up for the missed one. Maintain a consistent dosing schedule.

Overdose
Overuse of salmeterol may cause tremors, rapid heartbeat, or chest pain. Excessive corticosteroid use may cause hormonal imbalance. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.

Storage
Store the inhaler at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep the device capped when not in use. Do not puncture or burn the inhaler even when empty.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.