What is seretide?
Seretide is a combination inhaler of GlaxoSmithKline which contains the inhalative corticoid Fluticason and the long-acting bronchodilatator Salmeterol. It is one of the longest established combination inhalers.
Unlike Foster and Symbicort, Seretide contains Salmeterol, which acts more slowly and is therefore not suitable as a demand medication. Seretide is used exclusively as regular maintenance therapy.
Available as discus (powder inhaler) and as dosing aerosol.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Fluticason, Salmeterol
Seretide works by two mechanisms:
Fluticason (corticoid):
- Strong anti-inflammatory effect
- Higher potency than Beclometason or Budesonid
- Low system availability
- Reduced bronchial hyperreagiability
Salmeterol (LABA):
- Long-lasting bronchodilation (12 hours)
- Effect: 10-20 minutes (slower than formoterol)
- High beta-2 selectivity
- Not suitable for acute treatment
Important difference: Salmeterol does not work fast enough for acute therapy – therefore always additionally keep salbutamol ready as an emergency spray!
Who is it suitable for?
Seretide is suitable for:
- Asthma patients who are not sufficiently controlled with corticoid alone
- As maintenance therapy for medium to heavy asthma
- COPD with repeated exacerbations
Not suitable:
- As a single demand medication
- For MART therapy
- With mild, only occasional asthma
Important: Always have additionally fast-acting reliever (e.g. salbutamol) available!
Available Dosages
Seretide discus (powder):
- 100/50 μg (Fluticason/Salmeterol)
Seretide dosing aerosol: 50/25 μ g 125/25 μ g 250/25 μ g
Dosing at Asthma:
- 1 inhalation 2x daily
- Strength depending on severity
For COPD:
- Seretide Diskus 500/50: 1 inhalation 2x daily
How to Take
Seretide Diskus: 1. Keep discus in one hand, thumb on thumb support Two. Open the disk until it clicks 3. Push back lever until it clicks (dose is ready) 4. Breathe deep (not in the discus!) Five. Close the mouthpiece 6. Breathe uniformly and deeply 7. Keep breath 10 seconds 8. Close the disc 9. Rinse mouth
Dosieraerosol:
- Like other sprays with coordination of spray and inhalation
- For problems: Use Spacer
Usually apply! Seretide must be taken every day – even if there are no complaints. Only in this way can the full protective effect be built up.
Contraindications
Do not apply at:
- hypersensitivity to the active ingredients
- Discus: heavy milk allergy (includes lactose)
Preview at:
- Lung tuberculosis
- respiratory infections
- Heavy cardiovascular diseases
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypokaliemia
- thyroid diseases
- Glaucoma, cataract
pregnant and breastfeeding: Only with clear indication. Asthma should also be well controlled during pregnancy.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Mundsoor
- Heiserkeit
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps
Occasionally:
- Tremor
- Heart palp
- Skin rash
- joint pain
Selten:
- Systemic corticoid effects at high doses
- Paradox bronchospasmus
- Angioedema
For long-term use (high doses):
- Adrenal suppression possible
- bone degradation (osteoporosis)
- Cataract, glaucoma
Prevention: rinse the mouth after inhalation. Regular ophthalmic controls on long-term therapy.
Interactions
Reactions:
- Betablockers – can eliminate Salmeterol effect
- CYP3A4 inhibitor (Ritonavir, Ketoconazole) – increased Fluticason mirror
- QT-extending medication
- MAO inhibitors
** Ritonavir can lead to significant systemic corticoid exposure – avoid combination!
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is seretide right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.