Medication reference

Salmeterol

RESPIRATORY (INHALATION) · ORAL

Salmeterol. INDICATIONS AND USAGE SEREVENT DISKUS is a LABA indicated for: • Treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 years and older with an ICS. ( 1.1 ) • Prevent

Boxed warning

WARNING: ASTHMA-RELATED DEATH Long-acting beta 2 -adrenergic agonists (LABA), such as salmeterol, the active ingredient in SEREVENT DISKUS, as monotherapy (without inhaled corticosteroids [ICS]) increase the risk of asthma-related death. Data from a large placebo-controlled U.S. trial that compared the safety of salmeterol with placebo added to usual asthma therapy showed an increase in asthma-related deaths in subjects receiving salmeterol (13 deaths out of 13,176 subjects treated for 28 weeks on salmeterol versus 3 deaths out of 13,179 subjects on placebo). Use of background ICS was not required in this study. When LABA are used in fixed-dose combination with ICS, data from large clinical trials do not show a significant increase in the risk of serious asthma-related events (hospitalizations, intubations, death) compared with ICS alone. Use of SEREVENT DISKUS for the treatment of asthma as monotherapy without a concomitant ICS is contraindicated. Use SEREVENT DISKUS only as additional therapy for patients with asthma who are currently taking but are inadequately controlled on an ICS. Do not use SEREVENT DISKUS for patients whose asthma is adequately controlled on low- or medium-dose ICS. Pediatric and Adolescent Patients Available data from controlled clinical trials suggest that LABA as monotherapy increase the risk of asthma-related hospitalization in pediatric and adolescent patients. For pediatric and adolescent patients with asthma who require addition of a LABA to an ICS, a fixed-dose combination product containing both an ICS and a LABA should ordinarily be used to ensure adherence with both drugs. In cases where use of an ICS and a LABA is clinically indicated, appropriate steps must be taken to ensure adherence with both treatment components. If adherence cannot be assured, a fixed-dose combination product containing both an ICS and a LABA is recommended. WARNING: ASTHMA-RELATED DEATH See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • Long-acting beta 2 -adrenergic agonists (LABA), such as salmeterol, the active ingredient in SEREVENT DISKUS, as monotherapy (without inhaled corticosteroids [ICS]) increase the risk of asthma - related death. A U.S. trial showed an increase in asthma - related deaths in subjects receiving salmeterol (13 deaths out of 13,176 subjects treated for 28 weeks on salmeterol versus 3 out of 13,179 subjects on placebo). When LABA are used in fixed-dose combination with ICS, data from large clinical trials do not show a significant increase in the risk of serious asthma-related events (hospitalizations, intubations, death) compared with ICS alone. ( 5.1 ) • Prescribe SEREVENT DISKUS only as additional therapy for patients with asthma who are currently taking but are inadequately controlled on an ICS. Do not use SEREVENT DISKUS for patients whose asthma is adequately controlled on low- or medium-dose ICS. ( 1.1 , 5.1 ) • Available data from controlled clinical trials suggest that LABA as monotherapy increase the risk of asthma-related hospitalization in pediatric and adolescent patients. ( 5.1 )

Brand names

Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterolfluticasone propionate and salmeterolFluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol DISKUSADVAIR DISKUSWixela InhubAirDuo RespiClickSEREVENT DISKUS

Active ingredients

FLUTICASONE PROPIONATESALMETEROL XINAFOATE

Indications

INDICATIONS AND USAGE SEREVENT DISKUS is a LABA indicated for: • Treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 years and older with an ICS. ( 1.1 ) • Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) in patients aged 4 years and older. ( 1.2 ) • Maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). ( 1.3 ) Important limitation of use: Not indicated for relief of acute bronchospasm. ( 1.1 , 1.3 ) 1.1 Treatment of Asthma SEREVENT DISKUS is indicated for the treatment of asthma and in the prevention of bronchospasm only as concomitant therapy with an ICS in patients aged 4 years and older with reversible obstructive airway disease, including patients with symptoms of nocturnal asthma. LABA, such as salmeterol, the active ingredient in SEREVENT DISKUS, as monotherapy (without ICS) increase the risk of asthma-related death [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Use of SEREVENT DISKUS for the treatment of asthma without concomitant use of an ICS is contraindicated [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Use SEREVENT DISKUS only as additional therapy for patients with asthma who are currently taking but are inadequately controlled on an ICS. Do not use SEREVENT DISKUS for patients whose asthma is adequately controlled on low- or medium-dose ICS. Pediatric and Adolescent Patients Available data from controlled clinical trials suggest that LABA as monotherapy increase the risk of asthma-related hospitalization in pediatric and adolescent patients. For pediatric and adolescent patients with asthma who require addition of a LABA to an ICS, a fixed-dose combination product containing both an ICS and a LABA should ordinarily be used to ensure adherence with both drugs. In cases where use of a separate ICS and a LABA is clinically indicated, appropriate steps must be taken to ensure adherence with both treatment components. If adherence cannot be assured, a fixed-dose combination product containing both an ICS and a LABA is recommended. Important Limitation of Use SEREVENT DISKUS is NOT indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm. 1.2 Prevention of Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm SEREVENT DISKUS is also indicated for prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) in patients aged 4 years and older. Use of SEREVENT DISKUS as a single agent for the prevention of EIB may be clinically indicated in patients who do not have persistent asthma. In patients with persistent asthma, use of SEREVENT DISKUS for the prevention of EIB may be clinically indicated, but the treatment of asthma should include an ICS. 1.3 Maintenance Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease SEREVENT DISKUS is indicated for the long-term twice-daily administration in the maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (including emphysema and chronic bronchitis). Important Limitation of Use SEREVENT DISKUS is NOT indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm.

Dosage

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION For oral inhalation only. ( 2.1 ) Starting dosage is based on prior asthma therapy and disease severity. ( 2.2 ) 1 inhalation of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol 55 mcg/14 mcg, 113 mcg/14 mcg, or 232 mcg/14 mcg twice daily. ( 2.2 ) Do not use with a spacer or volume holding chamber. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Administration Instructions Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI is for oral inhalation and does not require priming. Do not use Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI with a spacer or volume holding chamber. Do not use more than two times every 24 hours. More frequent administration or a greater number of daily inhalations (more than one inhalation twice daily) is not recommended as some patients are more likely to experience adverse reactions with higher salmeterol dosages. Avoid the concomitant use of other long acting beta 2 -adrenergic agonist (LABAs) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 , 5.11 )]. If asthma symptoms arise in the period between doses, an inhaled, short-acting beta 2 -agonist should be taken for immediate relief. 2.2 Recommended Dosage Administer 1 inhalation of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI twice daily by oral inhalation (approximately 12 hours apart at the same time every day). Rinse the mouth with water without swallowing after each inhalation. Dosage Selection The recommended starting dosage for Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI is based on asthma severity and current inhaled corticosteroid use and strength. Patients not taking inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) (with less severe asthma): 1 inhalation of 55 mcg/14 mcg Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI dose strength (55 mcg of fluticasone propionate and 14 mcg of salmeterol), twice daily by oral inhalation. Patients with greater asthma severity, use the higher dose strengths: 1 inhalation of 113 mcg/14 mcg Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI (113 mcg of fluticasone propionate and 14 mcg of salmeterol) twice daily; or 1 inhalation of 232 mcg/14 mcg Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI (232 mcg of fluticasone propionate and 14 mcg of salmeterol) twice daily Patients switching to Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI from another inhaled corticosteroid or combination product: 1 inhalation of low (55 mcg/14 mcg), medium (113 mcg/14 mcg) or high (232 mcg/14 mcg) Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI twice daily by oral inhalation based on the strength of the previous inhaled corticosteroid product, or the strength of the inhaled corticosteroid from a combination product, and disease severity. The maximum recommended dosage of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI is 232 mcg/14 mcg twice daily. General Dosing Information Improvement in asthma control following Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI administration can occur within 15 minutes of beginning treatment; although maximum benefit may not be achieved for 1 week or longer after starting treatment. Individual patients will experience a variable time to onset and degree of symptom relief. For patients who do not respond adequately to the starting dose of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI after 2 weeks of therapy, consider increasing the strength (replace with higher strength) to possibly provide additional improvement in asthma control. If a previously effective dosage regimen fails to provide adequate improvement in asthma control, re-evaluate the therapeutic regimen, including patient compliance and inhaler technique, and consider additional therapeutic options (e.g., increasing the dose of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI with a higher strength, adding additional controller therapies). After asthma stability has been achieved, it is desirable to titrate to the lowest effective dosage to reduce the risk of adverse reactions. 2.3 Storing and Cleaning the Inhaler Keep the inhaler in a cool dry place. Routine maintenance is not required. If the mouthpiece needs cleaning, gently wipe the mouthpiece with a dry cloth or tissue as needed. Never wash or put any part of the inhaler in water. 2.4 Dose Counter The Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI has a dose counter: The number 60 is displayed (prior to use). The dose counter will count down each time the mouthpiece is opened and closed [see Patient Counseling Information ( 17 )]. 2.1 Administration Instructions Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI is for oral inhalation and does not require priming. Do not use Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI with a spacer or volume holding chamber. Do not use more than two times every 24 hours. More frequent administration or a greater number of daily inhalations (more than one inhalation twice daily) is not recommended as some patients are more likely to experience adverse reactions with higher salmeterol dosages. Avoid the concomitant use of other long acting beta 2 -adrenergic agonist (LABAs) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 , 5.11 )]. If asthma symptoms arise in the period between doses, an inhaled, short-acting beta 2 -agonist should be taken for immediate relief. 2.2 Recommended Dosage Administer 1 inhalation of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI twice daily by oral inhalation (approximately 12 hours apart at the same time every day). Rinse the mouth with water without swallowing after each inhalation. Dosage Selection The recommended starting dosage for Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI is based on asthma severity and current inhaled corticosteroid use and strength. Patients not taking inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) (with less severe asthma): 1 inhalation of 55 mcg/14 mcg Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI dose strength (55 mcg of fluticasone propionate and 14 mcg of salmeterol), twice daily by oral inhalation. Patients with greater asthma severity, use the higher dose strengths: 1 inhalation of 113 mcg/14 mcg Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI (113 mcg of fluticasone propionate and 14 mcg of salmeterol) twice daily; or 1 inhalation of 232 mcg/14 mcg Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI (232 mcg of fluticasone propionate and 14 mcg of salmeterol) twice daily Patients switching to Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI from another inhaled corticosteroid or combination product: 1 inhalation of low (55 mcg/14 mcg), medium (113 mcg/14 mcg) or high (232 mcg/14 mcg) Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI twice daily by oral inhalation based on the strength of the previous inhaled corticosteroid product, or the strength of the inhaled corticosteroid from a combination product, and disease severity. The maximum recommended dosage of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI is 232 mcg/14 mcg twice daily. General Dosing Information Improvement in asthma control following Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI administration can occur within 15 minutes of beginning treatment; although maximum benefit may not be achieved for 1 week or longer after starting treatment. Individual patients will experience a variable time to onset and degree of symptom relief. For patients who do not respond adequately to the starting dose of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI after 2 weeks of therapy, consider increasing the strength (replace with higher strength) to possibly provide additional improvement in asthma control. If a previously effective dosage regimen fails to provide adequate improvement in asthma control, re-evaluate the therapeutic regimen, including patient compliance and inhaler technique, and consider additional therapeutic options (e.g., increasing the dose of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI with a higher strength, adding additional controller therapies). After asthma stability has been achieved, it is desirable to titrate to the lowest effective dosage to reduce the risk of adverse reactions. 2.3 Storing and Cleaning the Inhaler Keep the inhaler in a cool dry place. Routine maintenance is not required. If the mouthpiece needs cleaning, gently wipe the mouthpiece with a dry cloth or tissue as needed. Never wash or put any part of the inhaler in water. 2.4 Dose

Warnings

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS LABA monotherapy increases the risk of serious asthma-related events. ( 5.1 ) Deterioration of asthma and acute episodes: Do not use for relief of acute symptoms. Patients require immediate re-evaluation during rapidly deteriorating asthma. ( 5.2 ) Do not use in combination with an additional medicine containing LABA because of risk of overdose. ( 5.3 ) Localized infections: Candida albicans infection of the mouth and pharynx may occur. Monitor patients periodically. Advise the patient to rinse his/her mouth with water without swallowing after inhalation to help reduce the risk. ( 5.4 ) Immunosuppression: Potential worsening of existing tuberculosis, fungal, bacterial, viral, parasitic infection, or ocular herpes simplex. Use with caution in patients with these infections. More serious or even fatal course of chickenpox or measles can occur in susceptible patients. ( 5.5 ) Transferring patients from systemic corticosteroids: Risk of impaired adrenal function when transferring from systemic corticosteroids. Taper patients slowly from systemic corticosteroids if transferring to Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol. ( 5.6 ) Hypercorticism and adrenal suppression: May occur with very high dosages or at the regular dosage in susceptible individuals. If such changes occur, discontinue Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol slowly. ( 5.7 ) Paradoxical bronchospasm: Discontinue Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol and institute alternative therapy if paradoxical bronchospasm occurs. ( 5.9 ) Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular or central nervous system disorders because of beta adrenergic stimulation. ( 5.11 ) Decreases in bone mineral density: Monitor patients with major risk factors for decreased bone mineral content. ( 5.12 ) Monitor growth of pediatric patients. ( 5.13 ) Close monitoring for glaucoma and cataracts is warranted. ( 5.14 ) Be alert to eosinophilic conditions, hypokalemia, and hyperglycemia. ( 5.15 , 5.17 ) Use with caution in patients with convulsive disorders, thyrotoxicosis, diabetes mellitus, and ketoacidosis. ( 5.16 ) 5.1 Serious Asthma-Related Events – Hospitalizations, Intubations, Death Use of LABA as monotherapy [without inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)] for asthma is associated with an increased risk of asthma-related death [see Salmeterol Multicenter Asthma Research Trial (SMART)] . Available data from controlled clinical trials also suggest that use of LABA as monotherapy increases the risk of asthma-related hospitalization in pediatric and adolescent patients. These findings are considered a class effect of LABA monotherapy. When LABA are used in fixed-dose combination with ICS, data from large clinical trials do not show a significant increase in the risk of serious asthma-related events (hospitalizations, intubations, death) compared with ICS alone [see Serious Asthma-Related Events with Inhaled Corticosteroid/Long-acting Beta 2 -adrenergic Agonists] . Serious Asthma-Related Events with Inhaled Corticosteroid/Long-acting Beta 2 -adrenergic Agonists Four large, 26-week, randomized, blinded, active-controlled clinical safety trials were conducted to evaluate the risk of serious asthma-related events when LABA were used in fixed-dose combination with ICS compared with ICS alone in subjects with asthma. Three (3) trials included adult and adolescent subjects aged 12 years and older: 1 trial compared budesonide/formoterol to budesonide, 1 trial compared fluticasone propionate/salmeterol inhalation powder to fluticasone propionate inhalation powder, and 1 trial compared mometasone furoate/formoterol to mometasone furoate. The fourth trial included pediatric subjects aged 4 to 11 years and compared fluticasone propionate/salmeterol inhalation powder to fluticasone propionate inhalation powder. The primary safety endpoint for all 4 trials was serious asthma-related events (hospitalizations, intubations, death). A blinded adjudication committee determined whether events were asthma-related. The 3 adult and adolescent trials were designed to rule out a risk margin of 2.0, and the pediatric trial was designed to rule out a risk margin of 2.7. Each individual trial met its pre-specified objective and demonstrated non-inferiority of ICS/LABA to ICS alone. A meta-analysis of the 3 adult and adolescent trials did not show a significant increase in risk of a serious asthma-related event with ICS/LABA fixed-dose combination compared with ICS alone (Table 1). These trials were not designed to rule out all risk for serious asthma-related events with ICS/LABA compared with ICS. Table 1. Meta-analysis of Serious Asthma-Related Events in Subjects with Asthma Aged 12 Years and Older ICS/LABA (n =17,537) a ICS (n = 17,552) a ICS/LABA vs. ICS Hazard Ratio (95% CI) b Serious asthma-related event c 116 105 1.10 (0.85, 1.44) Asthma-related death 2 0 Asthma-related intubation (endotracheal) 1 2 Asthma-related hospitalization (≥24-hour stay) 115 105 ICS = Inhaled Corticosteroid; LABA = Long-acting Beta 2 -adrenergic Agonist. a Randomized subjects who had taken at least 1 dose of study drug. Planned treatment used for analysis. b Estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model for time to first event with baseline hazards stratified by each of the 3 trials. c Number of subjects with events that occurred within 6 months after the first use of study drug or 7 days after the last date of study drug, whichever date was later. Subjects can have one or more events, but only the first event was counted for analysis. A single, blinded, independent adjudication committee determined whether events were asthma related. The pediatric safety trial included 6,208 pediatric patients aged 4 to 11 years who received ICS/LABA (fluticasone propionate/salmeterol inhalation powder) or ICS (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder). In this trial 27/3,107 (0.9%) of patients treated with ICS/LABA and 21/3,101 (0.7%) of patients treated with ICS experienced a serious asthma‑related event. There were no asthma-related deaths or intubations. ICS/LABA did not show a significantly increased risk of a serious asthma-related event compared to ICS based on the prespecified risk margin (2.7), with an estimated hazard ratio of time to first event of 1.29 (95% CI: 0.73, 2.27). Salmeterol Multicenter Asthma Research Trial (SMART) A 28-week, placebo-controlled, U.S. trial that compared the safety of salmeterol with placebo, each added to usual asthma therapy, showed an increase in asthma-related deaths in subjects receiving salmeterol (13/13,176 in subjects treated with salmeterol versus 3/13,179 in subjects treated with placebo; relative risk: 4.37 [95% CI: 1.25, 15.34]). Use of background ICS was not required in SMART. The increased risk of asthma‑related death is considered a class effect of LABA monotherapy. 5.2 Deterioration of Disease and Acute Episodes Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI should not be initiated in patients during rapidly deteriorating or potentially life‑threatening episodes of asthma. Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI has not been studied in subjects with acutely deteriorating asthma. The initiation of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI in this setting is not appropriate. Serious acute respiratory events, including fatalities, have been reported when salmeterol, a component of this product, has been initiated in patients with significantly worsening or acutely deteriorating asthma. In most cases, these have occurred in patients with severe asthma (e.g., patients with a history of corticosteroid dependence, low pulmonary function, intubation, mechanical ventilation, frequent hospitalizations, previous life‑threatening acute asthma exacerbations) and in some patients with acutely deteriorating asthma (e.g., patients with significantly increasing symptoms; increasing need for inhaled, short‑acting beta 2 ‑agonists; decreasing response to usual medications; increasing need for systemic corticosteroids; recent emergency room visits; de

Contraindications

CONTRAINDICATIONS Use of SEREVENT DISKUS for the treatment of asthma without concomitant use of an ICS is contraindicated [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . The use of SEREVENT DISKUS is contraindicated in the following conditions: • Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Severe hypersensitivity to milk proteins or demonstrated hypersensitivity to salmeterol or any of the excipients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6.3 ), Description ( 11 )] • Asthma: Without concomitant use of an ICS. ( 4 ) • Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or acute episodes of asthma or COPD requiring intensive measures. ( 4 ) • Severe hypersensitivity to milk proteins or demonstrated hypersensitivity to salmeterol or any of the excipients. ( 4 )

Drug interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI has been used concomitantly with other drugs, including short‑acting beta 2 ‑agonists, and intranasal corticosteroids, commonly used in patients with asthma without adverse drug reactions [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . No formal drug interaction trials have been performed with Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI. Avoid strong cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, ketoconazole): May increase risk of systemic corticosteroid and cardiovascular effects. ( 7.1 ) Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants: Use with extreme caution. May potentiate effect of salmeterol on vascular system. ( 7.2 ) Beta‑blockers: Use with caution. May block bronchodilatory effects of beta‑agonists and produce severe bronchospasm. ( 7.3 ) Diuretics: Use with caution. Electrocardiographic changes and/or hypokalemia associated with non‑potassium‑sparing diuretics may worsen with concomitant beta‑agonists. ( 7.4 ) 7.1 Inhibitors of Cytochrome P450 3A4 Fluticasone propionate and salmeterol, the individual components of this product, are substrates of CYP3A4. The use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, saquinavir, ketoconazole, telithromycin) with Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI is not recommended because increased systemic corticosteroid and increased cardiovascular adverse effects may occur. Ritonavir : Fluticasone Propionate: A drug interaction trial with fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray in healthy subjects has shown that ritonavir (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) can significantly increase plasma fluticasone propionate exposure, resulting in significantly reduced serum cortisol concentrations [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . During postmarketing use, there have been reports of clinically significant drug interactions in patients receiving fluticasone propionate and ritonavir, resulting in systemic corticosteroid effects including Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal suppression. Ketoconazole : Fluticasone Propionate: Coadministration of orally inhaled fluticasone propionate (1,000 mcg) and ketoconazole (200 mg once daily) resulted in a 1.9‑fold increase in plasma fluticasone propionate exposure and a 45% decrease in plasma cortisol area under the curve (AUC) but had no effect on urinary excretion of cortisol. Salmeterol: In a drug interaction trial in 20 healthy subjects, coadministration of inhaled salmeterol (50 mcg twice daily) and oral ketoconazole (400 mg once daily) for 7 days resulted in greater systemic exposure to salmeterol (AUC increased 16‑fold and C max increased 1.4‑fold). Three (3) subjects were withdrawn due to beta 2 ‑agonist side effects (2 with prolonged QTc and 1 with palpitations and sinus tachycardia). Although there was no statistical effect on the mean QTc, coadministration of salmeterol and ketoconazole was associated with more frequent increases in QTc duration compared with salmeterol and placebo administration [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . 7.2 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors and Tricyclic Antidepressants Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI should be administered with extreme caution to patients being treated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, or within 2 weeks of discontinuation of such agents, because the action of salmeterol, a component of this product, on the vascular system may be potentiated by these agents. 7.3 Beta-Adrenergic Receptor Blocking Agents Beta‑blockers not only block the pulmonary effect of beta‑agonists, such as salmeterol, a component of this product, but may also produce severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma. Therefore, patients with asthma should not normally be treated with beta‑blockers. However, under certain circumstances, there may be no acceptable alternatives to the use of beta‑adrenergic blocking agents for these patients; cardioselective beta‑blockers could be considered, although they should be administered with caution. 7.4 Non-Potassium-Sparing Diuretics The ECG changes and/or hypokalemia that may result from the administration of non–potassium‑sparing diuretics (such as loop or thiazide diuretics) can be acutely worsened by beta‑agonists, such as salmeterol, a component of this product, especially when the recommended dose of the beta‑agonist is exceeded. Although the clinical significance of these effects is not known, caution is advised in the coadministration of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI with non-potassium‑sparing diuretics. 7.1 Inhibitors of Cytochrome P450 3A4 Fluticasone propionate and salmeterol, the individual components of this product, are substrates of CYP3A4. The use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, saquinavir, ketoconazole, telithromycin) with Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI is not recommended because increased systemic corticosteroid and increased cardiovascular adverse effects may occur. Ritonavir : Fluticasone Propionate: A drug interaction trial with fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray in healthy subjects has shown that ritonavir (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) can significantly increase plasma fluticasone propionate exposure, resulting in significantly reduced serum cortisol concentrations [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . During postmarketing use, there have been reports of clinically significant drug interactions in patients receiving fluticasone propionate and ritonavir, resulting in systemic corticosteroid effects including Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal suppression. Ketoconazole : Fluticasone Propionate: Coadministration of orally inhaled fluticasone propionate (1,000 mcg) and ketoconazole (200 mg once daily) resulted in a 1.9‑fold increase in plasma fluticasone propionate exposure and a 45% decrease in plasma cortisol area under the curve (AUC) but had no effect on urinary excretion of cortisol. Salmeterol: In a drug interaction trial in 20 healthy subjects, coadministration of inhaled salmeterol (50 mcg twice daily) and oral ketoconazole (400 mg once daily) for 7 days resulted in greater systemic exposure to salmeterol (AUC increased 16‑fold and C max increased 1.4‑fold). Three (3) subjects were withdrawn due to beta 2 ‑agonist side effects (2 with prolonged QTc and 1 with palpitations and sinus tachycardia). Although there was no statistical effect on the mean QTc, coadministration of salmeterol and ketoconazole was associated with more frequent increases in QTc duration compared with salmeterol and placebo administration [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . 7.2 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors and Tricyclic Antidepressants Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol MDPI should be administered with extreme caution to patients being treated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, or within 2 weeks of discontinuation of such agents, because the action of salmeterol, a component of this product, on the vascular system may be potentiated by these agents. 7.3 Beta-Adrenergic Receptor Blocking Agents Beta‑blockers not only block the pulmonary effect of beta‑agonists, such as salmeterol, a component of this product, but may also produce severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma. Therefore, patients with asthma should not normally be treated with beta‑blockers. However, under certain circumstances, there may be no acceptable alternatives to the use of beta‑adrenergic blocking agents for these patients; cardioselective beta‑blockers could be considered, although they should be administered with caution. 7.4 Non-Potassium-Sparing Diuretics The ECG changes and/or hypokalemia that may result from the administration of non–potassium‑sparing diuretics (such as loop or thiazide diuretics) can be acutely worsened by beta‑agonists, such as salmeterol, a component of this product, especially when the recommended dose of the beta‑agonist is excee

Adverse reactions

ADVERSE REACTIONS Use of LABA may result in the following: • Serious asthma-related events – hospitalizations, intubations, death [see Warnings and Precautions ( )] • Cardiovascular and central nervous system effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( )] Systemic and local corticosteroid use may result in the following: • Candida albicans infection [see Warnings and Precautions ( )] • Pneumonia in patients with COPD [see Warnings and Precautions ( )] • Immunosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions ( )] • Hypercorticism and adrenal suppression [see Warnings and Precautions ( )] • Reduction in bone mineral density [see Warnings and Precautions ( )] • Growth effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( )] • Glaucoma and cataracts [see Warnings and Precautions ( )] Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Most common adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 3%) include: • Asthma: Upper respiratory tract infection or inflammation, pharyngitis, dysphonia, oral candidiasis, bronchitis, cough, headaches, nausea and vomiting. () • COPD: Pneumonia, oral candidiasis, throat irritation, dysphonia, viral respiratory infections, headaches, musculoskeletal pain. () To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. at 1-800-962-8364 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience in Asthma Adult and Adolescent Subjects Aged 12 Years and Older The incidence of adverse reactions associated with fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder in Table 2 is based upon two 12-week, placebo-controlled, U.S. clinical trials (Trials 1 and 2). A total of 705 adult and adolescent subjects (349 females and 356 males) previously treated with salmeterol or ICS were treated twice daily with fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder (100 mcg/50 mcg or 250 mcg/50 mcg doses), fluticasone propionate inhalation powder (100- or 250-mcg doses), salmeterol inhalation powder 50 mcg, or placebo. The average duration of exposure was 60 to 79 days in the active treatment groups compared with 42 days in the placebo group. Table 1: Adverse Reactions with Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol Inhalation Powder with ≥3% Incidence and More Common than Placebo in Adult and Adolescent Subjects with Asthma Adverse Event Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol Inhalation Powder 100 mcg/50 mcg (n = 92) % Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol Inhalation Powder 250 mcg/50 mcg (n = 84) % Fluticasone Propionate 100 mcg (n = 90) % Fluticasone Propionate 250 mcg (n = 84) % Salmeterol 50 mcg (n = 180) % Placebo (n = 175) % Ear, Nose, and Throat Upper Respiratory Tract Infection 27 21 29 25 19 14 Pharyngitis 13 10 7 12 8 6 Upper Respiratory Inflammation 7 6 7 8 8 5 Sinusitis 4 5 6 1 3 4 Hoarseness/Dysphonia 5 2 2 4 <1 <1 Oral Candidiasis 1 4 2 2 0 0 Lower Respiratory Viral respiratory infections 4 4 4 10 6 3 Bronchitis 2 8 1 2 2 2 Cough 3 6 0 0 3 2 Neurology Headaches 12 13 14 8 10 7 Gastrointestinal Nausea and Vomiting 4 6 3 4 1 1 Gastrointestinal Discomfort and Pain 4 1 0 2 1 1 Diarrhea 4 2 2 2 1 1 Viral Gastrointestinal Infections 3 0 3 1 2 2 Non-site Specific Candidiasis Unspecified Site 3 0 1 4 0 1 Musculoskeletal Musculoskeletal Pain 4 2 1 5 3 3 The types of adverse reactions and events reported in Trial 3, a 28-week, non-U.S. clinical trial in 503 subjects previously treated with ICS who were treated twice daily with fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder 500 mcg/50 mcg, fluticasone propionate inhalation powder 500 mcg and salmeterol inhalation powder 50 mcg used concurrently, or fluticasone propionate inhalation powder 500 mcg, were similar to those reported in Table 2. Additional Adverse Reactions Other adverse reactions not previously listed, whether considered drug-related or not by the investigators, that were reported more frequently by subjects with asthma treated with fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder compared with subjects treated with placebo include the following: lymphatic signs and symptoms; muscle injuries; fractures; wounds and lacerations; contusions and hematomas; ear signs and symptoms; nasal signs and symptoms; nasal sinus disorders; keratitis and conjunctivitis; dental discomfort and pain; gastrointestinal signs and symptoms; oral ulcerations; oral discomfort and pain; lower respiratory signs and symptoms; pneumonia; muscle stiffness, tightness, and rigidity; bone and cartilage disorders; sleep disorders; compressed nerve syndromes; viral infections; pain; chest symptoms; fluid retention; bacterial infections; unusual taste; viral skin infections; skin flakiness and acquired ichthyosis; disorders of sweat and sebum. Pediatric Subjects Aged 4 to 11 Years The safety data for pediatric subjects aged 4 to 11 years is based upon 1 U.S. trial of 12 weeks’ treatment duration. A total of 203 subjects (74 females and 129 males) who were receiving ICS at trial entry were randomized to either fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder 100 mcg/50 mcg or fluticasone propionate inhalation powder 100 mcg twice daily. Common adverse reactions (≥3% and greater than placebo) seen in the pediatric subjects but not reported in the adult and adolescent clinical trials include: throat irritation and ear, nose, and throat infections. Laboratory Test Abnormalities Elevation of hepatic enzymes was reported in ≥1% of subjects in clinical trials. The elevations were transient and did not lead to discontinuation from the trials. In addition, there were no clinically relevant changes noted in glucose or potassium. 6.2 Clinical Trials Experience in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Short-term (6 Months to 1 Year) Trials The short-term safety data are based on exposure to fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder 250 mcg/50 mcg twice daily in one 6-month and two 1-year clinical trials. In the 6-month trial, a total of 723 adult subjects (266 females and 457 males) were treated twice daily with fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder 250 mcg/50 mcg, fluticasone propionate inhalation powder 250 mcg, salmeterol inhalation powder, or placebo. The mean age of the subjects was 64, and the majority (93%) was Caucasian. In this trial, 70% of the subjects treated with fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder reported an adverse reaction compared with 64% on placebo. The average duration of exposure to fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder 250 mcg/50 mcg was 141.3 days compared with 131.6 days for placebo. The incidence of adverse reactions in the 6-month trial is shown in Table 3. Table 2: Overall Adverse Reactions with Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol Inhalation Powder 250 mcg/50 mcg with ≥3% Incidence in Subjects with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Associated with Chronic Bronchitis Adverse Event Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol Inhalation Powder 250 mcg/50 mcg (n = 178) % Fluticasone Propionate 250 mcg (n = 183) % Salmeterol 50 mcg (n = 177) % Placebo (n = 185) % Ear, Nose, and Throat Candidiasis - Mouth/Throat Throat Irritation Hoarseness/Dysphonia Sinusitis 10 8 5 3 6 5 3 8 3 4 <1 5 1 7 0 3 Lower Respiratory Viral Respiratory Infections 6 4 3 3 Neurology Headaches Dizziness 16 4 11 <1 10 3 12 2 Non-site Specific Fever Malaise and Fatigue 4 3 3 2 0 2 3 3 Musculoskeletal Musculoskeletal Pain Muscle Cramps and Spasms 9 3 8 3 12 1 9 1 In the two 1-year trials, fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder 250 mcg/50 mcg was compared with salmeterol in 1,579 subjects (863 males and 716 females). The mean age of the subjects was 65 years, and the majority (94%) was Caucasian. To be enrolled, all of the subjects had to have had a COPD exacerbation in the previous 12 month

Mechanism of action

Mechanism of Action Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol Inhalation Powder Fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder contains both fluticasone propionate and salmeterol. The mechanisms of action described below for the individual components apply to fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder. These drugs represent 2 different classes of medications (a synthetic corticosteroid and a LABA) that have different effects on clinical, physiologic, and inflammatory indices. Fluticasone Propionate Fluticasone propionate is a synthetic trifluorinated corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory activity. Fluticasone propionate has been shown in vitro to exhibit a binding affinity for the human glucocorticoid receptor that is 18 times that of dexamethasone, almost twice that of beclomethasone-17-monopropionate (BMP), the active metabolite of beclomethasone dipropionate, and over 3 times that of budesonide. Data from the McKenzie vasoconstrictor assay in man are consistent with these results. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Inflammation is an important component in the pathogenesis of asthma. Corticosteroids have been shown to have a wide range of actions on multiple cell types (e.g., mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes) and mediators (e.g., histamine, eicosanoids, leukotrienes, cytokines) involved in inflammation. These anti-inflammatory actions of corticosteroids contribute to their efficacy in asthma. Inflammation is also a component in the pathogenesis of COPD. In contrast to asthma, however, the predominant inflammatory cells in COPD include neutrophils, CD8+ T-lymphocytes, and macrophages. The effects of corticosteroids in the treatment of COPD are not well defined and ICS and fluticasone propionate when used apart from fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder are not indicated for the treatment of COPD. Salmeterol Xinafoate Salmeterol is a selective LABA. In vitro studies show salmeterol to be at least 50 times more selective for beta 2 -adrenoceptors than albuterol. Although beta 2 -adrenoceptors are the predominant adrenergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle and beta 1 -adrenoceptors are the predominant receptors in the heart, there are also beta 2 -adrenoceptors in the human heart comprising 10% to 50% of the total beta-adrenoceptors. The precise function of these receptors has not been established, but their presence raises the possibility that even selective beta 2 -agonists may have cardiac effects. The pharmacologic effects of beta 2 -adrenoceptor agonist drugs, including salmeterol, are at least in part attributable to stimulation of intracellular adenyl cyclase, the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic-3’,5’-adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP). Increased cyclic AMP levels cause relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle and inhibition of release of mediators of immediate hypersensitivity from cells, especially from mast cells. In vitro tests show that salmeterol is a potent and long-lasting inhibitor of the release of mast cell mediators, such as histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandin D 2 , from human lung. Salmeterol inhibits histamine-induced plasma protein extravasation and inhibits platelet-activating factor– induced eosinophil accumulation in the lungs of guinea pigs when administered by the inhaled route. In humans, single doses of salmeterol administered via inhalation aerosol attenuate allergen-induced bronchial hyper-responsiveness.

NDC examples

63629-881168788-870470518-434668788-845350090-450570518-434870518-434750090-42110378-93200378-93210378-93220093-3607

Indicated ICD-10 codes

Treats these conditions

Source: openFDA + RxNorm · 2026

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