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Serevent
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Serevent is a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) containing the active ingredient salmeterol, specifically designed to provide long-term maintenance for patients with reversible airways obstruction caused by asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Long-acting bronchodilator for sustained 12-hour airway relief
- Effective maintenance for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Available in Evohaler (MDI) and Accuhaler (DPI) formats
- Convenient twice-daily dosing schedule for long-term control
More information
"Serevent is typically prescribed as a maintenance treatment to prevent symptoms such as wheezing and breathlessness in patients with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD. It is essential to remember that while salmeterol is highly effective at keeping the airways open for up to 12 hours, it is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for the immediate relief of an acute asthma attack. For those managing asthma, Serevent must always be used alongside an inhaled corticosteroid to ensure comprehensive control of airway inflammation." - Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)
You can buy Serevent safely through Mail my Meds by completing a straightforward online clinical consultation. Our registered prescribers will review your medical history and current respiratory requirements to ensure the treatment is appropriate for you. Once approved, your prescription is fulfilled and shipped directly from our registered UK pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) in discreet packaging to protect your privacy.
The price of Serevent varies depending on the specific device type and the quantity required for your ongoing treatment plan. We aim to provide competitive pricing for both private and NHS repeat prescriptions, ensuring you have affordable access to your essential respiratory medication. You can view the current pricing options during the selection process before you begin your consultation.
We provide a range of delivery services across the UK to ensure your inhaler arrives when you need it. Whether you require a standard service or a more urgent delivery, we offer tracked options so you can monitor your order from our pharmacy to your front door. All medications are sent in neutral packaging for total discretion.
Serevent is a medicinal treatment used to manage long-term respiratory conditions by preventing the narrowing of the air passages in the lungs. It is primarily used for the regular treatment of asthma, including nocturnal asthma and exercise-induced bronchospasm, as well as managing symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. By keeping the airways open, it helps patients breathe more easily throughout the day and night.
The active ingredient in Serevent is salmeterol (as salmeterol xinafoate). This is a long-acting bronchodilator that targets the small muscles in the lungs, causing them to relax and stay dilated for an extended period, typically lasting at least 12 hours per dose.
Many patients report that Serevent significantly improves their quality of life by reducing the frequency of daily symptoms and preventing "morning dipping" or nighttime waking. It is frequently noted for its reliability as a "controller" medication, though users often emphasise the importance of still carrying a fast-acting rescue inhaler for sudden flare-ups.
You should always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication for a full list of instructions and safety data. You can access the digital versions for the Serevent Evohaler or the Serevent Accuhaler online via the electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC).
Serevent works by stimulating beta-2 receptors in the smooth muscles surrounding the bronchial tubes. This stimulation causes the muscles to relax, which widens the airways (bronchodilation) and allows air to flow in and out of the lungs more freely. Unlike short-acting relievers, salmeterol stays active in the body for a longer duration, providing sustained protection against airway constriction.
Serevent should be used regularly every day, even when you feel well, to maintain control over your breathing. Depending on the device prescribed, you will either use a metered-dose inhaler (Evohaler) which releases a puff of spray, or a dry powder inhaler (Accuhaler) which is activated by your breath. Your pharmacist or doctor will demonstrate the correct technique to ensure the medicine reaches your lungs effectively.
The dosage of Serevent is determined by your clinical needs and the condition being treated. While your prescriber will provide specific instructions, the general guidelines are as follows:
| Condition | Typical Adult Dosage | Typical Child Dosage (4-12 years) |
|---|---|---|
| Asthma | 2 puffs (Evohaler) or 1 inhalation (Accuhaler) twice daily | 2 puffs (Evohaler) or 1 inhalation (Accuhaler) twice daily |
| COPD | 2 puffs (Evohaler) or 1 inhalation (Accuhaler) twice daily | Not typically indicated |
Like all medicines, Serevent can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Most side effects are mild and often decrease as your body adjusts to the medication. Common side effects include:
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps
- Feeling shaky (tremors), particularly in the hands
- Increased heart rate or palpitations
Before using Serevent, inform your prescriber if you have heart disease, an irregular heartbeat, an overactive thyroid gland, or high blood pressure. It is also important to mention if you have ever had low potassium levels in your blood. Serevent should not be used as the sole treatment for asthma. It must be used in combination with a preventer (steroid) inhaler as per UK clinical guidelines.
Serevent is often compared to other long-acting bronchodilators or combination inhalers. While Serevent contains only salmeterol, other treatments like Seretide or Fostair combine a bronchodilator with a steroid in a single device.
- Serevent vs Ventolin: Ventolin is a short-acting "reliever" for immediate symptoms, while Serevent is a long-acting "preventative" maintenance treatment.
- Serevent vs Formoterol: Both are LABAs, but formoterol has a slightly faster onset of action, whereas salmeterol is often preferred for stable, long-term maintenance.
Can I use Serevent for a sudden asthma attack?
No, Serevent is not designed to treat sudden shortness of breath or an acute asthma attack. You must always have a fast-acting "reliever" inhaler (usually blue) available for emergency symptom relief.
Do I still need my steroid inhaler if I take Serevent?
Yes, if you have asthma, you must continue using your steroid preventer inhaler as prescribed. Serevent does not replace the anti-inflammatory action of corticosteroids.
Is Serevent available on the NHS?
Yes, Serevent is widely prescribed on the NHS for both asthma and COPD. Mail my Meds can fulfil your repeat NHS prescriptions and deliver them to your home.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking advice from a medical professional. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical advice regarding your respiratory condition.
Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts and pharmacists to ensure all information is up to date, accurate, and aligned with current UK clinical practice. We are dedicated to providing reliable resources for our patients' health and wellbeing.

