NEW ZEALAND DATA SHEET

1. PRODUCT NAME
SERETIDE Inhaler (with counter), 25 mcg/50 mcg, aerosol inhaler, metered dose

SERETIDE Inhaler (with counter), 25 mcg/125 mcg, aerosol inhaler, metered dose

SERETIDE Inhaler (with counter), 25 mcg/250 mcg, aerosol inhaler, metered dose

2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION

SERETIDE Inhaler 25 mcg/50 mcg:
Each single actuation provides salmeterol xinafoate equivalent to 25 micrograms of
salmeterol and 50 micrograms of fluticasone propionate.
SERETIDE Inhaler 25 mcg/125 mcg:
Each single actuation provides salmeterol xinafoate equivalent to 25 micrograms of
salmeterol and 125 micrograms of fluticasone propionate.
SERETIDE Inhaler 25 mcg/250 mcg:
Each single actuation provides salmeterol xinafoate equivalent to 25 micrograms of
salmeterol and 250 micrograms of fluticasone propionate.

For the full list of excipients, see Section 6.1 List of excipients

3. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM
Aerosol inhaler, metered dose.

The canisters are fitted into plastic actuators incorporating an atomising orifice and
fitted with dustcaps.

4. CLINICAL PARTICULARS
4.1 Therapeutic indications

Asthma:

SERETIDE is indicated for the regular treatment of asthma (Reversible Obstructive

Airways Disease) in adults, adolescents and children aged 4 years and over, where
use of a combination product (bronchodilator and inhaled corticosteroid) is
appropriate.

This may include:

• Patients on effective maintenance doses of both long-acting beta-agonists and

inhaled corticosteroids using separate products.

• Patients who are not adequately controlled on current inhaled corticosteroid

therapy.

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• Patients who are not adequately controlled on “as needed” short-acting beta-
agonists, as an alternative to initiation of maintenance therapy with moderate or
high doses of inhaled corticosteroid alone.

SERETIDE should not typically be used for the initial management of asthma, unless
symptoms are severely uncontrolled, nor in patients whose asthma can be managed
by occasional use of short-acting beta-2 agonists.

SERETIDE should not be used in the treatment of acute asthmatic symptoms.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):

SERETIDE is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of adult patients with moderate
to severe COPD (pre-bronchodilator FEV1<60% predicted normal), who have
significant symptoms despite bronchodilator therapy.

4.2 Dose and method of administration

Dose

SERETIDE Inhaler is for inhalation only.

Patients should be made aware that SERETIDE Inhaler must be used regularly for
optimum benefit, even when asymptomatic. Patients must be warned not to stop
therapy or reduce it without medical advice, even if they feel better on SERETIDE.

Patients should be regularly reassessed by a doctor, so that the strength of

SERETIDE they are receiving remains optimal and is only changed on medical
advice.

The dose should be titrated to the lowest dose at which effective control of symptoms
is maintained. Where effective control of symptoms is maintained with the lowest
strength of the SERETIDE inhaler (25 mcg/50 mcg) given twice daily, the next step
could include a test of inhaled corticosteroid alone. As an alternative, patients
requiring a long-acting beta-2 agonist could be titrated to SERETIDE given once daily
if, in the opinion of the prescriber, it would be adequate to maintain disease control.
In the event of once daily dosing when the patient has a history of nocturnal
symptoms, the dose should be given at night; and when the patient has a history of
mainly day-time symptoms, the dose should be given in the morning.

Regular review of patients as treatment is stepped down is important.

Asthma

Patients should be given the strength of SERETIDE containing the appropriate

fluticasone propionate dosage for the severity of their disease.

Patients should be instructed not to take additional doses to treat symptoms but to take
a short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonist.

Adults and adolescents 12 years and older:

Two inhalations of 25 mcg salmeterol and 50 mcg fluticasone propionate twice daily.

or

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Two inhalations of 25 mcg salmeterol and 125 mcg fluticasone propionate twice daily.

or
Two inhalations of 25 mcg salmeterol and 250 mcg fluticasone propionate twice daily.

Paediatric population

Children 4 years and older:

Two inhalations of 25 mcg salmeterol and 50 mcg fluticasone propionate twice daily.

Children under 4 years of age:

There are insufficient clinical data at present to recommend use of SERETIDE in

children aged under 4 years.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

2 inhalations of 25 mcg/125 mcg twice daily.

For patients who require additional symptomatic control replace the 25 mcg/125 mcg
strength with the 25 mcg/250 mcg strength.

The maximum daily dose is 2 inhalations 25 mcg/250 mcg twice daily (see Section 5
PHARMACOLIGICAL PROPERTIES, Clinical efficacy and safety).

Special populations:

There is no need to adjust the dose in elderly patients or in those with renal or
hepatic impairment.

Method of administration

For instructions on the use and handling of this medicine, see Section 6.6 Special
precautions for disposal and other handling.

4.3 Contraindications

SERETIDE is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to

salmeterol xinafoate, fluticasone propionate or any of the excipients listed in Section
6.1 List of excipients.

4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use

Use in asthma patients

SERETIDE should not be initiated in patients during an exacerbation, or if they have

unstable or acutely deteriorating asthma.

SERETIDE Inhaler is not for relief of acute symptoms for which a fast and short-
acting bronchodilator (e.g. salbutamol) is required. Patients should be advised to
have their relief medication available at all times.

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Asthma-related adverse events

Serious asthma-related adverse events and exacerbations may occur during treatment
with SERETIDE. Patients should be asked to continue treatment but to seek medical
advice if asthma symptoms remain uncontrolled or worsen after initiation of
SERETIDE.

Deterioration of asthma control

Increasing use of short-acting bronchodilators to relieve symptoms indicates

deterioration of control.

Sudden and progressive deterioration in control of asthma is potentially life-

threatening and the patient should be reviewed by a physician. Consideration should
be given to increasing corticosteroid therapy. Also, where the current dosage of
SERETIDE has failed to give adequate control of ROAD, the patient should be
reviewed by a physician.

Patients should be advised to seek medical attention if sudden deterioration of their

asthma occurs, if they find that short-acting relief bronchodilator treatment becomes
less effective or if they need more inhalations than usual.

Paradoxical Bronchospasm

As with other inhalation therapy paradoxical bronchospasm may occur with an

immediate increase in wheezing after dosing. This should be treated immediately
with a fast and short-acting inhaled bronchodilator. Salmeterol-fluticasone
propionate ACCUHALER or Inhaler should be discontinued immediately, the patient
assessed and alternative therapy instituted if necessary (see Section 4.8 Undesirable
effects).

The pharmacological side-effects of beta-2 agonist treatment, such as tremor,

subjective palpitations and headaches have been reported, but tend to be transient
and to reduce with regular therapy (see Section 4.8 Undesirable effects).

Use in COPD patients

There was an increased reporting of pneumonia in studies of patients with COPD

receiving SERETIDE (see Section 4.8 Undesirable effects). Physicians should
remain vigilant for the possible development of pneumonia in patients with COPD as
the clinical features of pneumonia and exacerbation frequently overlap.

Discontinuation

Once asthma symptoms are controlled, consideration may be given to gradually

reducing the dose of SERETIDE. Regular review of patients as treatment is stepped
down is important.

Treatment with SERETIDE should not be stopped abruptly in patients with asthma
due to risk of exacerbation; therapy should be titrated-down under physician
supervision.

For patients with COPD cessation of therapy may be associated with symptomatic
decompensation and should be supervised by a physician.

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Corticosteroids

SERETIDE contains an inhaled corticosteroid (fluticasone propionate).

Systemic effects may occur with any inhaled corticosteroid, particularly at high doses
prescribed for long periods; however, these effects are much less likely to occur than
with oral corticosteroids (see Section 4.9 Overdose). Possible systemic effects
include Cushing’s syndrome, Cushingoid features, adrenal suppression, growth
retardation and (very rarely) behavioural disturbances in children and adolescents,
decrease in bone mineral density, cataract, glaucoma and central serous
chorioretinopathy. Therefore, it is important, that the patient is reviewed regularly
and the dose of inhaled corticosteroid is titrated to the lowest dose at which effective
control is maintained.

The possibility of impaired adrenal response should always be borne in mind in

emergency and elective situations likely to produce stress and appropriate
corticosteroid treatment considered (see Section 4.9 Overdose).

Because of the possibility of impaired adrenal response, patients transferring from

oral steroid therapy to inhaled fluticasone propionate therapy should be treated with
special care, and adrenocortical function regularly monitored.

Following introduction of inhaled fluticasone propionate, withdrawal of systemic

therapy should be gradual and patients encouraged to carry a steroid warning card
indicating the possible need for additional therapy in times of stress.

It is recommended that the height of children receiving prolonged treatment with

inhaled corticosteroid is regularly monitored.

In rare cases inhaled therapy may unmask underlying eosinophilic conditions (e.g.
Churg Strauss syndrome). These cases have usually been associated with reduction
or withdrawal of oral corticosteroid therapy. A direct causal relationship has not been
established.

Patients with other medical conditions

Pulmonary tuberculosis

As with all inhaled medication containing corticosteroids, SERETIDE should be

administered with caution in patients with active or quiescent pulmonary tuberculosis.

Thyrotoxicosis

SERETIDE should be administered with caution in patients with thyrotoxicosis.

Cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular effects, such as increases in systolic blood pressure and heart rate,
may occasionally be seen with all sympathomimetic drugs, especially at higher than
therapeutic doses. Rarely, SERETIDE may cause cardiac arrhythmias e.g.
supraventricular tachycardia, extrasystoles and atrial fibrillation. Therefore,
SERETIDE should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular
disorders.

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Lower serum potassium

A transient decrease in serum potassium may occur with all sympathomimetic drugs
at higher therapeutic doses. Therefore, SERETIDE should be used with caution in
patients predisposed to low levels of serum potassium.

Diabetes mellitus

There have been very rare reports of increases in blood glucose levels (see Section
4.8 Undesirable effects) and this should be considered when prescribing to patients
with a history of diabetes mellitus.

Drug interaction potential

Ritonavir

During post-marketing 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.
Therefore, concomitant use of fluticasone propionate and ritonavir should be avoided,
unless the potential benefit to the patient outweighs the risk of systemic corticosteroid
side-effects (see Section 4.5 Interaction with other medicines and other forms of
interaction).

CYP3A4 inhibitors

It was observed in a drug interaction study that concomitant use of systemic

ketoconazole increases exposure to salmeterol. This may lead to prolongation in the
QTc interval. Caution should be exercised when strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g.
ketoconazole) are co-administered with salmeterol (see Section 4.5 Interaction with
other medicines and other forms of interaction and Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic
properties).

Spacer Devices

Patients that have poor inhaler technique may benefit from the consistent use of a
spacer device with their metered dose inhaler (MDI or ‘puffer’). Use of a spacer will
also decrease the amount of drug deposited in the mouth and back of the throat, and
therefore reduce the incidence of local side effects such as ‘thrush’ and a hoarse
voice.

A change in the make of spacer may be associated with alterations in the amount of
drug delivered to the lungs. The clinical significance of these alterations is uncertain.
However, in these situations, the person should be monitored for any loss of asthma
control.

If using a spacer, there are two potential techniques that can be described to the
patient:

1. The patient should be instructed to actuate the inhaler into the spacer and
then slowly breathe in as far as possible. They should hold their breath for as long
as comfortable, before breathing out slowly. This should be repeated for each
actuation of the drug into the spacer. Any delays between actuation and inhalation
should be kept to a minimum.

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2. Alternatively, the patient can be advised to breathe normally in and out via the
spacer for about 6 breaths per actuation of the inhaler.

Static on the walls of the spacer may cause variability in drug delivery. Patients
should be instructed to wash the spacer in warm water and detergent and allow it to
air dry without rinsing or drying with a cloth. This should be performed before initial
use of the spacer and at least monthly thereafter.

4.5 Interaction with other medicines and other forms of interaction

Salmeterol

Beta-blockers

Both non-selective and selective beta-blockers should be avoided, unless there are
compelling reasons for their use.

CYP3A4 inhibitors

Co-administration of ketoconazole and salmeterol resulted in a significant increase in

plasma salmeterol exposure (1.4-fold Cmax and 15-fold AUC). This may lead to
prolongation of the QTc interval. Due to the potential increased risk of cardiovascular
adverse events, the concomitant use of salmeterol with strong CYP3A43 inhibitors
(e.g. ketoconazole, atazanavir, ritonavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, intraconazole,
nefazodone, nelfinavir and saquinavir) is not recommended (see Section 4.4 Special
warnings and precautions for use and Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties ).

Fluticasone propionate

Under normal circumstances, low plasma concentrations of fluticasone propionate

are achieved after inhaled dosing, due to extensive first pass metabolism and high
systemic clearance mediated by cytochrome P450 3A4 in the gut and liver. Hence,
clinically significant drug interactions mediated by fluticasone propionate are unlikely.

Ritonavir

A drug interaction study in healthy subjects has shown that ritonavir (a highly potent
cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitor) can greatly increase fluticasone propionate plasma
concentrations, resulting in markedly reduced serum cortisol concentrations. During
post-marketing use, there have been reports of clinically significant drug interactions
in patients receiving intranasal or inhaled fluticasone propionate and ritonavir,
resulting in systemic corticosteroid effects including Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal
suppression. Therefore, concomitant use of fluticasone propionate and ritonavir
should be avoided, unless the potential benefit to the patient outweighs the risk of
systemic corticosteroid side-effects.

CYP3A4 inhibitors

Studies have shown that other inhibitors of cytochrome P450 3A4 produce negligible
(erythromycin) and minor (ketoconazole) increases in systemic exposure to
fluticasone propionate without notable reductions in serum cortisol concentrations.
Nevertheless, care is advised when co-administering potent cytochrome P450 3A4
inhibitors (e.g. ketoconazole) as there is potential for increased systemic exposure to
fluticasone propionate.

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4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

There are limited data in pregnant women. Administration during pregnancy should
only be considered if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible
risk to the foetus.

An observational retrospective epidemiological cohort study utilising electronic health

records from the United Kingdom was conducted to evaluate the risk of MCMs
following first trimester exposure to inhaled fluticasone propionate alone and
salmeterol-fluticasone propionate relative to non-fluticasone propionate containing
inhaled corticosteroids. No placebo comparator was included in this study.

Within the asthma cohort of 5362 first trimester inhaled corticosteroids-exposed

pregnancies, 131 diagnosed MCMs were identified; 1612 (30%) were exposed to
fluticasone propionate or salmeterol-fluticasone propionate of which 42 diagnosed
MCMs were identified. The adjusted odds ratio for MCMs diagnosed by 1 year was
1.1 (95%CI: 0.5 – 2.3) for fluticasone propionate exposed vs non-fluticasone
propionate inhaled corticosteroid exposed women with moderate asthma and 1.2
(95%CI: 0.7 – 2.0) for women with considerable to severe asthma. No difference in
the risk of MCMs was identified following first trimester exposure to fluticasone
propionate alone versus salmeterol-fluticasone propionate. Absolute risks of MCM
across the asthma severity strata ranged from 2.0 to 2.9 per 100 fluticasone
propionate-exposed pregnancies which is comparable to results from a study of
15,840 pregnancies unexposed to asthma therapies in the General Practice
Research Database (2.8 MCM events per 100 pregnancies).

Results from the retrospective epidemiological study did not find an increased risk of
major congenital malformations (MCMs) following exposure to fluticasone propionate
when compared to other inhaled corticosteroids, during the first trimester of
pregnancy.

Reproductive toxicity studies in animals, either with single agent or in combination,

revealed the foetal effects expected at excessive systemic exposure levels of a
potent beta-2-adrenoreceptor agonist and glucocorticosteroid.

Extensive clinical experience with agents in these classes has revealed no evidence
that the effects are relevant at therapeutic doses.

Breast-feeding

Administration during lactation should only be considered if the expected benefit to the
mother is greater than any possible risk to the child.

There is insufficient experience of the use of salmeterol xinafoate and fluticasone

propionate in human lactation. Salmeterol and fluticasone propionate concentrations
in plasma after inhaled therapeutic doses are very low and therefore concentrations
in human breast milk are likely to be correspondingly low. This is supported by
studies in lactating animals, in which low agent concentrations were measured in
milk. There are no data available for human breast milk.

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Fertility

There are no data on human fertility. Animal studies indicate no effects of fluticasone
propionate or salmeterol xinofoate on male or female fertility.

4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines

There have been no specific studies of the effect of SERETIDE on the above
activities, but the pharmacology of both agents does not indicate any effect.

4.8 Undesirable effects

Summary of adverse reactions

All of the adverse reactions associated with the individual components, salmeterol
xinafoate and fluticasone propionate, are listed below. There are no additional
adverse reactions attributed to the combination product when compared to the
adverse event profiles of the individual components.

Adverse events are listed below by system organ class and frequency. Frequencies
are defined as:

Very common (>1/10)

Common (>1/100 to <1/10)

Uncommon (>1/1000 to <1/100)

Rare (>1/10,000 to <1/1000)

Very rare (<1/10,000) including isolated reports

The majority of frequencies were determined from pooled clinical trial data from 23
asthma and 7 COPD studies. Not all events were reported in clinical trials. For
these events, the frequency was calculated based on spontaneous data.

Clinical Trial Data

Infections and infestations

Common: Candidiasis of mouth and throat, pneumonia (in COPD patients)

Rare: Oesophageal candidiasis

Immune system disorders

Hypersensitivity Reactions:

Uncommon: Cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions, dyspnoea

Rare: Anaphylactic reactions

Endocrine disorders

Possible systemic effects include (see Section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions
for use):

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Uncommon: Cataract

Rare: Glaucoma

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Uncommon: Hyperglycaemia

Psychiatric disorders

Uncommon: Anxiety, sleep disorders

Rare: Behavioural changes, including hyperactivity and irritability (predominantly in

children)

Nervous system disorders

Very common: Headache (see Section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for
use)

Uncommon: Tremor (see Section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use)

Cardiac disorders

Uncommon: Palpitations (see Section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for
use), tachycardia, atrial fibrillation

Rare: Cardiac arrhythmias including supraventricular tachycardia and extrasystoles

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Common: Hoarseness/dysphonia

Uncommon: Throat irritation

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Uncommon: Contusions

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Common: Muscle cramps, arthralgia

Postmarketing Data

Immune system disorders

Hypersensitivity reactions manifesting as:

Rare: Angioedema (mainly facial and oropharyngeal oedema) and bronchospasm

Endocrine disorders

Possible systemic effects include (see Section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions
for use):

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Rare: Cushing’s syndrome, Cushingoid features, adrenal suppression, growth
retardation in children and adolescents, decreased bone mineral density

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Rare: Paradoxical bronchospasm (see Section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions
for use)
Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicine is

important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicine.
Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via:
https://nzphvc.otago.ac.nz/reporting/.

4.9 Overdose

It is not recommended that patients receive higher than approved doses of

SERETIDE. It is important to review therapy regularly and titrate down to the lowest
approved dose at which effective control of disease is maintained (see Section 4.2
Dose and method of administration)

The available information on overdose with SERETIDE, salmeterol and/or fluticasone

propionate is given below:

Symptoms and signs

The expected symptoms and signs of salmeterol overdosage are those typical of
excessive beta-2-adrenergic stimulation, including tremor, headache, tachycardia,
increases in systolic blood pressure and hypokalaemia and raised blood glucose
levels.

Acute inhalation of fluticasone propionate doses in excess of those approved may

lead to temporary suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal axis. This does
not usually require emergency action as normal adrenal function typically recovers
within a few days.

If higher than approved doses of SERETIDE are continued over prolonged periods,
significant adrenocortical suppression is possible. There have been very rare reports
of acute adrenal crisis, mainly occurring in children exposed to higher than approved
doses over prolonged periods (several months or years); observed features have
included hypoglycaemia associated with decreased consciousness and/or
convulsions. Situations which could potentially trigger acute adrenal crisis include
exposure to trauma, surgery, infection or any rapid reduction in the dosage of the
inhaled fluticasone propionate component.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for an overdose of salmeterol and fluticasone

propionate. If overdose occurs, the patient should be treated supportively with
appropriate monitoring as necessary.
For advice on the management of overdose please contact the National Poisons
Centre on 0800 POISON (0800 764 766).

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5. PHARMACOLIGICAL PROPERTIES
5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties

Pharmacotherapeutic group: Adrenergics in combination with corticosteroids or other

drugs, excl. Anticholinergics.

ATC code: R03AK06

Mechanism of action

SERETIDE contains salmeterol and fluticasone propionate which have differing

modes of action. Salmeterol provides symptomatic relief while fluticasone propionate
improves lung function and prevents exacerbations of the condition. SERETIDE can
offer a more convenient regime for patients on concurrent long-acting beta-agonist
and inhaled corticosteroid therapy. The respective mechanisms of action of both
agents are discussed below:

Salmeterol

Salmeterol is a selective long-acting (12 hour) beta-2-adrenoceptor agonist with a

long side chain which binds to the exo-site of the receptor.

These pharmacological properties of salmeterol offer a slower onset of action, but

more effective protection against histamine-induced bronchoconstriction and produce
a longer duration of bronchodilation, lasting for approximately 12 hours, than
recommended doses of conventional short-acting beta-2-agonists.

In vitro tests have shown salmeterol is a potent and long-lasting inhibitor of the
release, from human lung, of mast cell mediators such as histamine, leukotrienes
and prostaglandin D2.

In man, salmeterol inhibits the early and late phase response to inhaled allergen; the
latter persisting for over 30 hours after a single dose when the bronchodilator effect is
no longer evident. Single dosing with salmeterol attenuates bronchial hyper-
responsiveness. These properties indicate that salmeterol has additional non-
bronchodilator activity but the full clinical significance is not yet clear. This
mechanism is different from the anti-inflammatory effect of corticosteroids.

Fluticasone propionate

Fluticasone propionate given by inhalation at recommended doses has a potent

glucocorticoid anti-inflammatory action within the lungs, resulting in reduced
symptoms and exacerbations of asthma, without the adverse effects observed when
corticosteroids are administered systemically.

Daily output of adrenocortical hormones usually remain within the normal range
during chronic treatment with inhaled fluticasone propionate, even at the highest
recommended doses in children and adults. After transfer from other inhaled
steroids, the daily output gradually improves despite past and present intermittent
use of oral steroids, thus demonstrating return of normal adrenal function on inhaled
fluticasone propionate. The adrenal reserve also remains normal during chronic
treatment, as measured by a normal increment on a stimulation test. However, any
residual impairment of adrenal reserve from previous treatment may persist for a

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considerable time and should be borne in mind (see Section 4.4 Special warnings
and precautions for use).

Clinical efficacy and safety

Asthma

Safety and efficacy of salmeterol-fluticasone propionate versus fluticasone

propionate alone in asthma:

Two multi-centre 26-week studies were conducted to compare the safety and efficacy
of salmeterol-fluticasone propionate versus fluticasone propionate alone, one in adult
and adolescent subjects (AUSTRI trial), and the other in paediatric subjects 4-11
years of age (VESTRI trial). For both studies, enrolled subjects had moderate to
severe persistent asthma with history of asthma-related hospitalisation or asthma
exacerbation in the previous year. The primary objective of each study was to
determine whether the addition of LABA to ICS therapy (salmeterol-fluticasone
propionate) was non-inferior to ICS (fluticasone propionate) alone in terms of the risk
of serious asthma related events (asthma-related hospitalisation, endotracheal
intubation, and death). A secondary efficacy objective of these studies was to
evaluate whether ICS/LABA (salmeterol-fluticasone propionate) was superior to ICS
therapy alone (fluticasone propionate) in terms of severe asthma exacerbation
(defined as deterioration of asthma requiring the use of systemic corticosteroids for at
least 3 days or an in-patient hospitalisation or emergency department visit due to
asthma that required systemic corticosteroids).

A total of 11,679 and 6,208 subjects were randomised and received treatment in the
AUSTRI and VESTRI trials, respectively. For the primary safety endpoint, non-
inferiority was achieved for both trials (see Table below).

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Serious Asthma-Related Events in the 26-Week AUSTRI and VESTRI Trials:
AUSTRI VESTRI
Salmeterol- Fluticasone Salmeterol- Fluticasone
fluticasone propionate fluticasone propionate
propionate alone propionate alone
(n = 5,834) (n = 5,845) (n = 3,107) (n = 3,101)
Composite endpoint
(Asthma-related
hospitalisation, 34 (0.6%) 33 (0.6%) 27 (0.9%) 21 (0.7%)
endotracheal
intubation, or death)
Salmeterol-
fluticasone 1.029 1.285
propionate
/fluticasone (0.638- (0.726-
propionate Hazard 1.662)a 2.272)b
ratio (95% CI)
Death 0 0 0 0
Asthma-related
34 33 27 21
hospitalisation
Endotracheal
0 2 0 0
intubation
a
If the resulting upper 95% CI estimate for the relative risk was less than 2.0, then
non-inferiority was concluded.
b
If the resulting upper 95% CI estimate for the relative risk was less than 2.675,
then non-inferiority was concluded.

For the secondary efficacy endpoint, reduction in time to first asthma exacerbation for
salmeterol-fluticasone propionate relative to fluticasone propionate was seen in both
studies, however only AUSTRI met statistical significance:
AUSTRI VESTRI
Salmeterol- Fluticasone Salmeterol- Fluticasone
fluticasone propionate fluticasone propionate
propionate alone propionate alone
(n = 5,834) (n = 5,845) (n = 3,107) (n = 3,101)
Number of subjects
with an asthma 480 (8%) 597 (10%) 265 (9%) 309 (10%)
exacerbation
Salmeterol-
fluticasone
propionate 0.787 0.859
/fluticasone (0.698, 0.888) (0.729, 1.012)
propionate Hazard
ratio (95% CI)

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Twelve month study:

A large twelve-month study (Gaining Optimal Asthma ControL, GOAL) in 3416

asthma patients compared the efficacy and safety of salmeterol-fluticasone
propionate versus inhaled corticosteroid alone in achieving pre-defined levels of
asthma control. Treatment was stepped-up every 12 weeks until ##‘Total control’ was
achieved or the highest dose of study drug was reached. Control needed to be
sustained for at least 7 out of the last 8 weeks of treatment. The study showed that:

- 71% of patients treated with salmeterol-fluticasone propionate achieved

#‘Well-controlled’ asthma compared with 59% of patients treated with
inhaled corticosteroid alone.
- 41% of patients treated with salmeterol-fluticasone propionate achieved
##‘Total control’ of asthma compared with 28% of patients treated with
inhaled corticosteroid alone.

These effects were observed earlier with salmeterol-fluticasone propionate compared

with inhaled corticosteroid alone and at a lower inhaled corticosteroid dose.

The GOAL study also showed that:

- The rate of exacerbations was 29% lower with salmeterol-fluticasone

propionate compared to inhaled corticosteroid treatment alone.
- Attaining #‘Well controlled’ and ##‘Totally controlled’ asthma improved
Quality of Life (QoL). 61% of patients reported minimal or no impairment
on QoL, as measured by an asthma specific quality of life questionnaire,
after treatment with salmeterol-fluticasone propionate compared to 8% at
baseline.

#Well controlled asthma; less than or equal to 2 days with symptom score greater
than 1 (symptom score 1 defined as ‘symptoms for one short period during the day’),
SABA use on less than or equal to 2 days and less than or equal to 4
occasions/week, greater than or equal to 80% predicted morning peak expiratory
flow, no night-time awakenings, no exacerbations and no side effects enforcing a
change in therapy.

##Total control of asthma; no symptoms, no SABA use greater than or equal to 80%
predicted morning peak expiratory flow, no night-time awakenings, no exacerbations
and no side effects enforcing a change in therapy.

Two further studies have shown improvements in lung function, percentage of

symptom free days and reduction in rescue medication use, at 60% lower inhaled
corticosteroid dose with salmeterol-fluticasone propionate compared to treatment
with inhaled corticosteroid alone, whilst the control of the underlying airway
inflammation, measured by bronchial biopsy and bronchoalveolar lavage, was
maintained.

Additional studies have shown that treatment with salmeterol-fluticasone propionate

significantly improves asthma symptoms, lung function and reduces the use of
rescue medication compared to treatment with the individual components alone and
placebo. Results from GOAL show that the improvements seen with salmeterol-
fluticasone propionate, in these endpoints, are maintained over at least 12 months.

15
COPD

Symptomatic COPD patients who demonstrated less than 10% reversibility to a short
acting beta-2-agonist:

Placebo-controlled clinical trials, over 6 and 12 months, have shown that regular use
of SERETIDE 50/500 micrograms rapidly and significantly improves lung function,
significantly reduced breathlessness and the use of relief medication. Over a 12-
month period the risk of COPD exacerbations and the need for additional courses of
oral corticosteroids was significantly reduced. There were also significant
improvements in health status.

SERETIDE 50/500 micrograms was effective in improving lung function, health status
and reducing the risk of COPD exacerbations, in both current and ex-smokers.
Symptomatic COPD patients without restriction to 10% reversibility to a short acting
beta-2-agonist:

Placebo-controlled clinical trials, over 6 months, have shown that regular use of both
SERETIDE 50/250 and 50/500 micrograms rapidly and significantly improves lung
function, significantly reduced breathlessness and the use of relief medication. There
were also significant improvements in health status.

TORCH study (Towards a Revolution in COPD Health):

TORCH was a 3 year study to assess the effect of treatment with SERETIDE 50/500
mcg twice daily, fluticasone propionate 500 mcg twice daily, salmeterol 50 mcg twice
daily, or placebo on all-cause mortality in patients with COPD. Patients with
moderate to severe COPD with a baseline (pre-bronchodilator) FEV1 <60% of
predicted normal were randomised to double-blind medication. During the study,
patients were permitted usual COPD therapy with the exception of other inhaled
corticosteroids, long-acting bronchodilators, and long-term systemic corticosteroids.
Survival status at 3 years was determined for all patients regardless of withdrawal
from study medication. The primary endpoint was reduction in all-cause mortality at 3
years for SERETIDE vs placebo.

Placebo Salmeterol 50 Fluticasone Seretide

propionate 500 50/500
N=1524 N=1521 N=1534 N=1533

All-cause mortality at 3 years

Number of 231 205 246 193

deaths (%) (15.2%) (13.5%) (16.0%) (12.6%)
Hazard Ratio N/A 0.879 1.060 0.825
vs Placebo (0.73, 1.06) (0.89, 1.27) (0.68, 1.00)
(CIs)
0.180 0.525 0.0521
P value

Hazard ratio N/A 0.932 0.774 N/A

Seretide (0.77, 1.13) (0.64, 0.93)
50/500 vs

16
 components 0.481 0.007
(CIs)
P value
1. P value adjusted for 2 interim analyses on the primary efficacy comparison from a
log-rank analysis stratified by smoking status.

There was a trend towards improved survival in subjects treated with SERETIDE
compared with placebo over 3 years however this did not achieve the statistical
significance level p 0.05. The percentage of patients who died within 3 years due to
COPD-related causes was 6.0% for placebo, 6.1% for salmeterol, 6.9% for
fluticasone propionate and 4.7% for SERETIDE.

SERETIDE reduced the rate of moderate to severe COPD exacerbations by 25%

(p<0.001) compared with placebo. SERETIDE reduced the exacerbation rate by 12%
compared with salmeterol (p=0.002) and 9% compared with fluticasone propionate
(p=0.024).

Health Related Quality of Life, as measured by the St George’s Respiratory

Questionnaire (SGRQ) was improved by all active treatments in comparison with
placebo. The average improvement over 3 years for SERETIDE compared with
placebo was -3.1 units (p<0.001), compared with salmeterol was -2.2 units (p<0.001)
and compared with fluticasone propionate was -1.2 units (p=0.017). The odds of
SERETIDE subjects achieving a clinically significant improvement in health status (ie.
≥ 4 point reduction in SGRQ) was 86% greater compared to placebo (p<0.001), 40%
greater compared to salmeterol (p<0.001) and 24% greater compared to fluticasone
propionate (p=0.006).

Over the 3 year treatment period, FEV1 values were higher in subjects treated with
SERETIDE than those treated with placebo (average difference over 3 years 92 mL,
p<0.001). SERETIDE was also more effective than salmeterol or fluticasone
propionate in improving FEV1 (average difference 50 mL, p<0.001 for salmeterol and
44 mL, p<0.001 for fluticasone propionate).

The estimated 3 year probability of having pneumonia reported as an adverse event

was 12.3% for placebo, 13.3% for salmeterol, 18.3% for fluticasone propionate and
19.6% for SERETIDE (Hazard ratio for SERETIDE vs placebo: 1.64, p<0.001). There
was no increase in pneumonia related deaths; deaths while on treatment that were
adjudicated as primarily due to pneumonia were 7 for placebo, 9 for salmeterol, 13
for fluticasone propionate and 8 for SERETIDE. There was no significant difference
in probability of bone fracture between treatments. The incidence of adverse events
of eye disorders, bone disorders, and HPA axis disorders was low and there was no
difference observed between treatments. There was no evidence of an increase in
cardiac adverse events in the treatment groups receiving salmeterol.

The all-cause mortality findings from TORCH were further supported by data from
another study, INSPIRE, which was a 2 year randomised (n=1323), double blind
study comparing the effects of SERETIDE 50/500 mcg twice daily with tiotropium 18
mcg once daily in COPD patients with post bronchodilator FEV1 <50% predicted
normal. All-cause mortality was a safety end point in this study. The results showed
that for time to death on-treatment, there was a 52% reduction in the risk of dying at
anytime on therapy over the 2 year study period for SERETIDE compared to
tiotropium (p=0.012).

17
5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties

There is no evidence in animal or human subjects that the administration of

salmeterol and fluticasone propionate together by the inhaled route affects the
pharmacokinetics of either component.

For pharmacokinetic purposes therefore each component can be considered

separately.

Even though plasma levels of SERETIDE are very low, potential interactions with
other substrates and inhibitors of CYP 3A4 cannot be excluded.

Salmeterol

Salmeterol acts locally in the lung therefore plasma levels are not an indication of
therapeutic effects. In addition, there are only limited data available on the
pharmacokinetics of salmeterol because of the technical difficulty of assaying the
agent in plasma due to the low plasma concentrations at therapeutic doses
(approximately 200pg/mL or less) achieved after inhaled dosing. After regular dosing
with salmeterol xinafoate, hydroxynaphthoic acid can be detected in the systemic
circulation, reaching steady state concentrations of approximately 100 ng/mL. These
concentrations are up to 1000 fold lower than steady state levels observed in toxicity
studies. No detrimental effects have been seen following long-term regular dosing
(more than 12 months) in patients with airway obstruction.

In a placebo-controlled, crossover drug interaction study in 15 healthy subjects, co-

administration of salmeterol (50 mcg twice daily inhaled) and the CYP3A4 inhibitor
ketoconazole (400 mg once daily orally) for 7 days resulted in a significant increase
in plasma salmeterol exposure (1.4-fold Cmax and 15-fold AUC). There was no
increase in salmeterol accumulation with repeat dosing. Three subjects were
withdrawn from salmeterol and ketoconazole co-administration due to QTc
prolongation or palpitations with sinus tachycardia. In the remaining 12 subjects, co-
administration of salmeterol and ketoconazole did not result in a clinically significant
effect on heart rate, blood potassium or QTc duration (see Section 4.4 Special
warnings and precautions for use, and Section 4.5 Interaction with other medicines
and other forms of interaction).

Fluticasone propionate

The absolute bioavailability of fluticasone propionate for each of the available inhaler
devices has been estimated from within and between study comparisons of inhaled
and intravenous pharmacokinetic data. In healthy adult subjects the absolute
bioavailability has been estimated for fluticasone propionate Accuhaler (7.8%),
fluticasone propionate Inhaler (10.9%), SERETIDE Inhaler (5.3%) and SERETIDE
Accuhaler (5.5%) respectively. In patients with ROAD or COPD a lesser degree of
systemic exposure to inhaled fluticasone propionate has been observed. Systemic
absorption occurs mainly through the lungs and is initially rapid then prolonged. The
remainder of the inhaled dose may be swallowed but contributes minimally to
systemic exposure due to the low aqueous solubility and pre-systemic metabolism,
resulting in oral availability of less than 1%. There is a linear increase in systemic
exposure with increasing inhaled dose. The disposition of fluticasone propionate is
characterised by high plasma clearance (1150 mL/min), a large volume of distribution
at steady-state (approximately 300L) and a terminal half-life of approximately 8
hours. Plasma protein binding is moderately high (91%). Fluticasone propionate is

18
cleared very rapidly from the systemic circulation, principally by metabolism to an
inactive carboxylic acid metabolite, by the cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP3A4.

The renal clearance of fluticasone propionate is negligible (<0.2%) and less than 5%
as the metabolite. Care should be taken when co-administering known CYP3A4
inhibitors, as there is potential for increased systemic exposure to fluticasone
propionate.

5.3 Preclinical safety data

Salmeterol xinafoate and fluticasone propionate have been extensively evaluated in

animal toxicity tests. Significant toxicities occurred only at doses in excess of those
recommended for human use and were those expected for a potent beta-2-
adrenoreceptor agonist and glucocorticosteroid. Neither salmeterol xinafoate nor
fluticasone propionate has shown any potential for genetic toxicity.

In long term studies, salmeterol xinafoate induced benign tumours of smooth muscle
in the mesovarium of rats and the uterus of mice. Rodents are sensitive to the
formation of these pharmacologically-induced tumours. Salmeterol is not considered
to represent a significant oncogenic hazard to man.

Co-administration of salmeterol and fluticasone propionate resulted in some

cardiovascular interactions at high doses. In rats, mild atrial myocarditis and focal
coronary arteritis were transient effects that resolved with regular dosing. In dogs,
heart rate increases were greater after co-administration than after salmeterol alone.
No clinically relevant serious adverse cardiac effects have been observed in studies
in man.

Co-administration did not modify other class-related toxicities in animals.

The non-CFC propellant, HFA134a, has been shown to have no toxic effect at very
high vapour concentrations, far in excess of those likely to be experienced by
patients, in a wide range of animal species exposed daily for periods of two years.

6. PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS
6.1 List of excipients

Norflurane HFA 134a (a CFC-Free propellant).

6.2 Incompatibilities

None reported.

6.3 Shelf life

2 years.

6.4 Special precautions for storage

Store below 30°C. Protect from frost and direct sunlight.

As with most inhaled medications in pressurised canisters, the therapeutic effect of

this medication may decrease when the canister is cold.

19
Pressurised container. Do not expose to temperatures higher than 50°C. The
canister should not be punctured, broken or burnt even when apparently empty.

6.5 Nature and contents of container

SERETIDE Inhaler comprises a suspension of salmeterol xinafoate and fluticasone

propionate in the non-CFC propellant HFA 134a. The suspension is contained in an
aluminium alloy can sealed with a metering valve. The canisters are fitted into plastic
actuators incorporating an atomising orifice and fitted with dustcaps. The canister
has a counter attached to it, which shows how many actuations of medicine are left.
The number of actuations left will show through a window in the back of the plastic
actuator. SERETIDE Inhaler has been formulated in three strengths and one pack
size, delivering 120 actuations per inhaler.

6.6 Special precautions for disposal and other handling

For detailed instructions for use, refer to the Patient Information leaflet.

Before using for the first time, the patient should test the inhaler by releasing puffs
into the air until the counter reads 120 to make sure that it works.

If the inhaler has not been used for a week or more, the patient should release two
puffs into the air before using.

Each time a puff is released the number on the counter will count down by one. In
some cases dropping the inhaler may cause the counter to count down.

How to use the inhaler:

1. Remove the mouthpiece cover by gently squeezing the sides of the cover.

2. Check inside and outside of the inhaler including the mouthpiece for the
presence of loose objects.

3. Shake the inhaler well to ensure that any loose objects are removed and that
the contents of the inhaler are evenly mixed.

4. Hold the inhaler upright between fingers and thumb with your thumb on the
base, below the mouthpiece.

5. Breathe out as far as is comfortable and then place the mouthpiece in your
mouth between your teeth and close your lips around it, but do not bite it.

6. Just after starting to breathe in through your mouth, press down on the top of
the inhaler to release salmeterol and fluticasone propionate, while still
breathing in steadily and deeply.

7. While holding your breath, take the inhaler from your mouth and take your
finger from the top of the inhaler. Continue holding your breath for as long as
is comfortable.

8. To take a second inhalation keep the inhaler upright and wait about half a
minute before repeating steps 3 to 7.

9. Afterwards, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out.

20
10. Immediately replace the mouthpiece cover in the correct position. The cap
when correctly fitted will click into position. If it does not click into place, turn
the cap the other way round and try again. Do not use excessive force.

DO NOT PUT THE METAL CANISTER INTO WATER.

7. MEDICINES SCHEDULE
Prescription Only Medicine

8. SPONSOR
GlaxoSmithKline NZ Limited
Private Bag 106600
Downtown
Auckland
New Zealand

Phone: (09) 367 2900

Facsimile (09) 367 2910

9. DATE OF FIRST APPROVAL

25 January 2001

10 DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT

Date: 18 June 2021

Section changed Summary of new information

6.4 Additional information in relation to storage

Revision of copyright and trademark statements

Version: 12.0

Trade marks are owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies.

© 2021 GSK group of companies or its licensor.

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