After opening, how long should a preloaded Salmeterol (Seravent) device be used?

The correct answer is that a preloaded Salmeterol (Serevent) device should typically be used for up to 6 weeks after opening. This guideline is based on the stability of the medication and the effectiveness of the inhaler after it has been exposed to air. Salmeterol, a long-acting beta-agonist used in the management of asthma, can lose potency over time when exposed to the environment. Therefore, ensuring that the patient understands this timeframe is crucial in maintaining effective asthma management.

This duration helps in optimizing therapeutic benefit while minimizing potential risks associated with using a product that may have degraded in quality. Providing this information is a key aspect of patient education in asthma management, as it encourages adherence to medication use while avoiding reliance on a potentially ineffective treatment.