From the Guidelines
Seretide (fluticasone-salmeterol) is not recommended for use in infants as young as 3 months old. This medication is not approved for children under 4 years of age in most countries, as stated in the guidelines by the Expert Panel report 3 (EPR-3) 1. For infants with respiratory issues, treatment should be determined by a pediatrician or pediatric pulmonologist who can prescribe age-appropriate medications and dosages.
The decision to initiate long-term control therapy in infants and young children should be based on a thorough evaluation of the child's symptoms, medical history, and risk factors for developing persistent asthma 1. Inhaled corticosteroids are the preferred long-term control medication for initiating therapy in this age group, but the benefits and risks of treatment should be carefully weighed, and treatment should be titrated to the lowest effective dose 1.
Some key considerations for treating infants and young children with respiratory issues include:
- Monitoring response to therapy closely and stopping treatment if a clear beneficial effect is not obvious within 4 to 6 weeks 1
- Considering alternative therapies or diagnoses if treatment is not effective 1
- Using delivery devices that are suitable for young children, such as a face mask and either a nebulizer or an MDI with a VHC 1
- Being aware of the potential risks and benefits of different medications, including inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists 1
In general, the treatment of infants and young children with respiratory issues should be individualized and based on the specific needs and circumstances of each child. Parents should seek immediate medical attention if their infant is experiencing respiratory symptoms, and a pediatrician or pediatric pulmonologist can provide guidance on the best course of treatment.
From the Research
Dosage of Seretide for 3-Month-Old Infants
- The recommended dosage of Seretide (fluticasone-salmeterol) for a 3-month-old infant is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is worth noting that Seretide is indicated for the regular treatment of children (aged >4 years) with asthma that is inadequately controlled with ICS monotherapy plus as-needed short-acting β2-agonists, or already adequately controlled with ICS/LABA 4.
- For infants younger than 4 years, there is limited evidence on the efficacy and safety of Seretide, and the dosage has not been established 2, 3, 4.
- Studies on the efficacy and safety of fluticasone propionate/salmeterol in children with asthma have been conducted in older children, and the results may not be applicable to infants as young as 3 months 3, 4.
- In general, the dosage of inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone propionate, in infants and young children is typically lower than in older children and adults, and is often based on the child's weight and age 5, 6.
Considerations for Treatment
- The treatment of asthma in infants and young children requires careful consideration of the potential benefits and risks of different medications, including inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β2-agonists 2, 3, 4.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics and other professional organizations have published guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of asthma in infants and young children, which may be helpful in determining the best course of treatment for a 3-month-old infant with asthma 6.
- However, the specific dosage of Seretide for a 3-month-old infant is not addressed in these guidelines, and the decision to use this medication in this age group should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual child's needs and medical history.