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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › DRUGS FOR OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES › ADRENERGICS, INHALANTS › Selective beta-2-adrenoreceptor agonists
salmeterol
R03AC12
Forms & Strengths
- MDI inhaler 25 µg per actuation
- MDI inhaler 50 µg per actuation
- DPI (Diskus) 50 µg per inhalation
- Nebulizer solution 0.5 mg/2 mL
Adult Dosing
- 50 µg inhaled twice daily via MDI or DPI
- Maximum 200 µg per day
- Do not use for acute symptom relief
Pediatric Dosing
- Age ≥ 4 yr: 25 µg inhaled twice daily (MDI)
- Age 4‑11 yr: 25 µg BID; age ≥ 12 yr: 50 µg BID
- Not recommended for children <4 yr
Indications
- Maintenance treatment of asthma
Mechanism of Action
- Selective long‑acting β2‑adrenergic agonist
- Stimulates adenylate cyclase → ↑cAMP → bronchodilation
- Duration of action ≈12 h
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to salmeterol or formulation excipients
- Acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus
Adverse Reactions
- Tremor
- Headache
- Palpitations or tachycardia
- Muscle cramps
- Throat irritation/cough
- Paradoxical bronchospasm
- Hypokalemia
Drug Interactions
- β‑blockers may antagonize bronchodilation
- Concomitant sympathomimetics ↑ cardiovascular effects
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin) may raise salmeterol levels
- LABA monotherapy increases risk of asthma‑related death – combine with inhaled corticosteroid
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use