Salmeterol
Serevent (salmeterol) is a long-acting bronchodilator used to prevent wheezing, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties associated with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways to keep them open, providing symptom relief for up to 12 hours per dose. This medication is intended for maintenance therapy and should not be used to relieve sudden breathing problems.
Serevent is a long-acting inhaler used regularly to prevent asthma and COPD symptoms by relaxing airway muscles.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203159
- Generic
- Serevent
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Serevent is used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is also prescribed to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm. It is not indicated for acute bronchospasm relief.
Serevent is a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) that binds to beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscle of the airways, causing relaxation of these muscles. This bronchodilation opens the airways and allows for easier breathing for approximately 12 hours per dose.
Serevent should always be used with an inhaled corticosteroid for asthma management and is not a substitute for a rescue inhaler. It carries a FDA black box warning that LABAs may increase the risk of asthma-related hospitalization and death. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if their breathing problems worsen while using this medication. Common side effects may include throat irritation, headache, and tremor.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy