.
Salmeterol is a member of the drug family known as long-acting, beta-adrenergic bronchodilators. It is inhaled by mouth, into the lungs, to treat asthma and prevent bronchospasm. Salmeterol is also used to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Interactions with Herbs
Coleus (Coleus
forskohlii)
A test tube study demonstrated that the bronchodilating effects of salbutamol, another
beta-adrenergic bronchodilator drug, were significantly increased by the addition of
forskolin, the active component of the herb Coleus forskohlii.1 The
results of this preliminary research suggest that the combination of forskolin and
beta-agonists might provide an alternative to raising the doses of the beta-agonist drugs as
they lose effectiveness. Until more is known, coleus should not be combined with salmeterol
without the supervision of a doctor.
Summary of Interactions for Salmeterol
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | Coleus* |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Yousif MH, Thulesius O. Forskolin reverses tachyphylaxis to the bronchodilator effects of salbutamol: an in-vitro study on isolated guinea-pig trachea. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999;51:181–6.
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