Contents
Salmex is a medicine sold in an inhaler, which is primarily designed to dilate the bronchi. Thanks to it, air flows more easily through the respiratory tract. It belongs to the group of corticosteroids which soothe irritations in the lungs and reduce swelling. Find out what the indications for the use of Salmex are, how to dose it and what side effects it can cause.
The composition of the drug Salmex
Two active substances are used in Salmex: fluticasone propionate and salmeterol. In addition to them, the composition of the preparation also includes an auxiliary substance in the form of lactose monohydrate.
Salmex – indications for use
Salmex is most often prescribed to patients with asthma. In addition, the indication for the use of the preparation may also be chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The drug is intended for regular use. It is not intended to be relied upon, for example in sudden attacks of breathlessness.
Salmex – contraindications
The drug should not be used by people who are hypersensitive to the active substances of the preparation, as well as to the excipient. Depending on the degree of hypersensitivity, it can then cause various allergic reactions, both mild and severe.
Salmex – dosage
Salmex should always be taken according to the package leaflet and the doctor’s instructions. It is important to take the preparation every day. In the case of bronchial asthma, adults and adolescents over 12 years of age should use one inhalation twice a day of Salmex 500 µg + 50 µg. Children aged 4 to 12 years should take one inhalation of Salmex 100 µg + 50 µg twice a day. Dosage is similar for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is also important to remember that if your asthma symptoms are mild, your doctor may recommend that you reduce the frequency of your asthma use. Then, depending on whether the symptoms occur during the day or at night, the patient can take the medicine in the morning or in the evening.
Do not change the dose or frequency of taking the preparation yourself.
Possible side effects
Like other medicines, Salmex can cause certain side effects. The following allergic reactions may occur after using the drug: itching and swelling of the face, throat, lips and tongue, difficulty breathing, cough.
Very common side effects are: headaches and a tendency to colds. Pain and swelling in joints and muscles, thrush in the mouth, in the throat and tongue, hoarseness, silence, bronchitis, lung and sinusitis, and a decrease in blood potassium are common. Muscle cramps, restlessness, throat irritation, tachycardia, palpitations are uncommon in patients. Breathing difficulties and wheezing are rare.
Taking the drug for a long time may affect the production of steroid hormones. The following may then occur: glaucoma, cataracts, bone loss, weight gain, face rounding.
Interactions with other drugs
Be careful, especially if you are taking other medications at the same time. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, both prescription and over-the-counter. People who take antiviral, antifungal drugs, corticosteroids, and beta-blockers used in various heart diseases should be especially careful.
What else should you watch out for?
The drug should not be given to children under 4 years of age. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using the drug to check whether there are any contraindications to the use of Salmex.