Brand Name
Advair Diskus
Common Name
salmeterol - fluticasone
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 02240835 | ADVAIR 100 DISKUS |
| 02240836 | ADVAIR 250 DISKUS |
| 02240837 | ADVAIR 500 DISKUS |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
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 should I use this medication?
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 form(s) does this medication come in?
A plastic inhaler device containing a foil strip with 28 or 60 blisters. Each blister contains 50 µg of salmeterol (as the xinafoate salt) and 100 µg of fluticasone propionate. Nonmedicinal ingredients: lactose (milk sugar), including milk protein, which acts as the "carrier".
Advair 250 Diskus
A plastic inhaler device containing a foil strip with 28 or 60 blisters. Each blister contains 50 µg of salmeterol (as the xinafoate salt) and 250 µg of fluticasone propionate. Nonmedicinal ingredients: lactose (milk sugar), including milk protein, which acts as the "carrier".
Advair 500 Diskus
A plastic inhaler device containing a foil strip with 28 or 60 blisters. Each blister contains 50 µg of salmeterol (as the xinafoate salt) and 500 µg of fluticasone propionate. Nonmedicinal ingredients: lactose (milk sugar), including milk protein, which acts as the "carrier".
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.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Salmeterol - fluticasone should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to salmeterol, fluticasone, or any of the ingredients of the product, including lactose
- has untreated fungal, bacterial, or tuberculous infections of the lungs
- has abnormal heart rhythms known as tachyarrhythmias
- has moderate to severe bronchiectasis or status asthmaticus
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