salmeterol

Warnings and precautions

Black Box Warning: Asthma-related death, children <4 yr Black Box Warning: Children should not use this product as monotherapy for asthma; use only with persistent asthma in those whose symptoms are not con- trolled with a long-term asthma agent; after product controls asthma, use an- other bronchodilator • Hypersensitivity:  assess for rash, urticaria; rarely leads to anaphylaxis, an­ gioedema Black Box Warning: Asthma-related death: long-acting beta agonists have been associated with severe asthma and asth- ma-related death. If wheezing worsens and cannot be relieved during an acute asthma attack, patients should be instructed to seek immediate medical attention. Avoid use of single-ingredient long-acting beta agonists for asthma. Do not use in those with significantly worsening asthma, which may be life-threatening • Pregnancy/breastfeeding: use only if benefits outweigh fetal risk; cautious use in breastfeeding, excretion unknown Black Box Warning: Asthma-related deaths:  to seek medical attention immediately for serious asthma at- tack; death may be greater in black patients • Not to use for acute bronchospasm; never to exhale into Diskus; to hold level, keep mouthpiece dry • Not to use OTC medications, extra stimulation may occur • If using to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm, to use 1⁄2-1 hr before exercise • Review package insert with patient • To avoid getting powder in eyes • To avoid smoking, smoke-filled rooms, persons with respiratory infections • Not for treatment of acute exacerba- tion; a fast-acting β-blocker should be used instead • To immediately report dyspnea after use if ≥1 canister is used in 2 mo time • To notify prescriber if >4 inhalations are needed or if product is no longer working • To take other products as prescribed • To notify prescriber if pregnancy is suspected or if breastfeeding

Source pages 1189, 1190