What does the Advair Diskus / Advair Inhaler do?

This medication contains two active ingredients that are used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The two active ingredients are 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, keeping the air passage open and making it easier to breathe. 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 open the airways and improve breathing.

It is important to remember that salmeterol - fluticasone is intended for long-term relief and is not intended for immediate relief. Inhalers that contain "reliever" medications with fast action (e.g., salbutamol, terbutaline) will still be needed while using this medication.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed 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.

How do I take Advair Diskus?

The usual recommended dose for adults and children 4 years of age and older is one inhalation of the appropriate strength (as recommended by your doctor) twice daily.

Gargle with water after each use to prevent hoarseness and thrush of the mouth and throat.

See the package insert or speak with your pharmacist for instructions on using the dispenser properly.

To remain effective, it is very important that this medication be used regularly twice a day, exactly as prescribed by your doctor, even when you are not experiencing symptoms of asthma or COPD. To prevent side 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.

If you miss a dose of this medication, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Store this medication at room temperature, in a dry place, and keep it out of the reach of children. Keep the device closed when not in use.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What are the side effects of Advair Diskus?

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• body aches or pains
• cough
• congestion
• dizziness
• fast heartbeat
• fatigue
• headache
• hoarseness
• mouth, tongue or throat irritation
• muscle cramps or pain
• nausea
• tremor
• vomiting

Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• sores, ulcer, or white patches in the mouth or throat

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• difficulty swallowing, breathing, or speaking
• skin rash or hives all over the body
• sudden wheeziness and chest pain or tightness
• swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat, or eyelids
• worsening asthma symptoms even after using your reliever medication

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.