Salmeterol

Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist (LABA) bronchodilator used for maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by relaxing the smooth muscle in airways, keeping them open for up to 12 hours after each dose.

Salmeterol is not used for acute relief of bronchospasm — it is a controller medication for preventing symptoms. It is most commonly prescribed in combination with inhaled corticosteroids such as fluticasone (marketed as Seretide). As a single-agent inhaler, it is available under brand names such as Serevent. Indian manufacturers produce salmeterol in metered-dose inhalers and dry powder inhalers, both as monotherapy and in fixed-dose combinations.