There are risks of possible side effects when using a Seretide inhaler, as with any medication. Most side effects are quite mild and subside over time. Others can be more serious and, in this stance, should be reported to your GP right away when using a Seretide inhaler. Feel free to contact a member of our team if you have any questions regarding the side effects and use of the Seretide inhaler. 

Common side effects can include:

·       Headache

·       Oral thrush

·       Altered taste

You should stop using the Seretide inhaler and inform your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects

·       Signs of an allergic reaction (Difficulty breathing, talking, or swelling of the face and tongue)

·       Persistent tingling in chest, arms, legs and face

How do I use the Seretide inhaler?

You should take the Seretide inhaler exactly as your doctor has told you. The usual dose is one to two puffs twice daily.

The following is how to use a metered-dose inhaler:

1.     To open the inhaler, remove the mouthpiece cover-check there is no object in the mouthpiece.

2.     Hold the inhaler upright with your thumb on the base and your finger on the top of the canister and shake the inhaler up and down 4 or 5 times.

3.     Breathe out as far as is comfortable, away from the MDI. Do not breathe out into the inhaler.

4.     Put the mouthpiece to your lips. Seal your lips around the mouthpiece.

5.     Start to breathe in slowly and gently. As you begin to breathe in, press the top of the canister down fully to release one dose. Continue breathing in slowly and steadily and as deeply as you can until your lungs are full.

6.     Remove the device from your mouth and hold your breath for 5 to 10 seconds and then breathe out slowly. You can now continue to breathe normally.

7.     For a second dose, wait around 30 seconds and then repeat steps 2 – 6.

8.     To close, replace the mouthpiece cover.

The following is how to use an Accuhaler:

1.     Stand or sit upright when using your Accuhaler.

2.     Open your Accuhaler using the thumb grip. Push it away from you until you hear a click.

3.     Holding the Accuhaler horizontally, load the dose by sliding the lever away from you until you hear a click. 

4.     Breathe out gently, as far as is comfortable, away from the mouthpiece. 

5.     Place the mouthpiece between your teeth without biting and form a good seal around it with your lips.

6.     Breathe in through your mouth as forcefully and deeply as you can.

7.     Hold your breath for 10 seconds or as long as is comfortable.

8.     Remove the Accuhaler from your mouth.

9.     Breathe out gently and slowly away from the mouthpiece.

1. If an extra dose is needed, wait 30 seconds then repeat steps 3 to 9.

11.  Close the cover by sliding the thumb grip towards you and click shut.

Can I use a Seretide inhaler if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The seretide inhaler is fine for use in patients who are pregnant, breast feeding, or planning to get pregnant unless instructed by your doctor. It is important to have your asthma under control whilst trying to get or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How Do I know when my Seretide runs out?

There are 60 doses of medication in the accuhaler. A dose counter on the side of the accuhaler will tell you how many doses you have left.

Can I drink alcohol while taking the Seretide inhaler?

Alcohol and Seretide inhalers are fine to mix.

How long will it take the Seretide inhaler to work?

This can vary from patient to patient but as it is a steroid the effects seem more long-term. You should see an improvement within a week,  longer term you should see a reduction in how often you use your salbutamol (blue) inhaler.

How long should I use the Seretide inhaler?

Seretide inhaler should be used for as long as it is prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking your inhaler unless instructed to by your doctor and it is important to have your Seretide inhaler on you at all times

Can I buy a Seretide inhaler over the counter?

Seretide inhaler can only be obtained with a prescription, which means it can’t be bought over the counter at your local pharmacy. You can get it online at Pharmacy7days. You will need to complete an online medical prescriber to ensure it is appropriate for you.

Before taking any medicines such as this Seretide treatment, regardless of whether they are over-the-counter or prescription-only, it is essential always to read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7599.pdf

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7597.pdf