What is this medication for?
This product contains two different types of medications that are used for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) associated with chronic bronchitis. These medications are known as salmeterol and fluticasone.
Salmeterol belongs to a group of medications called bronchodilators. These medications relax the muscles in the walls of the small air passages in the lung to make it easier to get air in and out. Because the effects of salmeterol last for a long time, it is used to help keep these air passages open. Salmeterol should not be used to treat an asthma attack. It is not intended to be used alone as a substitute for corticosteroid inhalers. Do not stop taking your salmeterol without checking with your doctor first.
Fluticasone belongs to a group of medications known as corticosteroids. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the lungs and help reduce the swelling and irritation in the walls of the small air passages in the lungs. This helps keep the airways open and improve breathing.
It is important to remember that both of these medications are intended for long-term relief, not immediate relief. Inhalers that contain "reliever" medications with fast action such as salbutamol or terbutaline will still be needed while using this medication on a regular basis.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Advair Diskus® is available as:
- Inhalation device (inhaler)
- 100/50 (fluticasone 100 µg + salmeterol 50 µg)
- 250/50 (fluticasone 250 µg + salmeterol 50 µg)
- 500/50 (fluticasone 500 µg + salmeterol 50 µg)
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual recommended dose for adults and children 12 years of age and older is one inhalation of the appropriate strength (as decided by your doctor) twice daily. To remain effective, it is very important that this medication be used regularly twice a day, exactly as prescribed by your doctor. To prevent unwanted undesirable effects, do not use this medication more often than prescribed.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as the severity of the condition, body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
If you miss a dose of this medication, use it as soon as you remember. However, if you don't remember until a few hours after your scheduled dose, skip that dose and take the next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses at the same time. For this medication to be effective, it is very important that you use it daily on a regular basis and exactly according to the doctor's instructions. To prevent thrush of the mouth and throat, gargle with water after each use.
See the package insert for instructions on using the inhaler properly. Discard the inhaler within one month after removing the protective foil overwrap, or when the dose indicator reads "0."
Keep the inhaler dry, and make sure you close it when it's not in use. Slide the lever only when ready to take a dose. To ensure proper delivery of the medication and prevent moisture from entering the inhaler, do not breathe (or exhale) into the inhaler. Do not wash the inhaler and do not try to take it apart.
Store at controlled room temperature (68-77°F) in a dry place. Protect from moisture and sunlight. Keep out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Salmeterol - fluticasone should not be used by anyone with:
- an allergy to any of the ingredients of the product, including lactose
This medication should not be used to treat asthma attacks or acute episodes of COPD where intensive treatment is needed.
