Advair Diskus

Advair Diskus is a combination inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (ICS/LABA) designed for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It delivers two active ingredients—fluticasone propionate and salmeterol—in a single, easy-to-use inhalation device. This medication is indicated to reduce exacerbations, improve lung function, and control symptoms in appropriate patient populations, as determined by a healthcare provider. It is not intended for immediate relief of acute bronchospasm.

Features

• Contains fluticasone propionate (an inhaled corticosteroid) and salmeterol (a long-acting bronchodilator)
• Delivered via a breath-actuated Diskus inhalation device
• Available in multiple strength combinations to allow for individualized dosing
• Pre-measured doses reduce preparation errors
• Does not require shaking or coordination of actuation with inhalation
• Built-in dose counter to track remaining medication

Benefits

• Provides dual-action therapy targeting both inflammation and bronchoconstriction
• Reduces frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations
• Improves overall lung function as measured by FEV1
• Enhances symptom control, leading to fewer nighttime awakenings and reduced rescue inhaler use
• Supports long-term management of COPD, including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema
• Convenient twice-daily dosing supports adherence

Common use

Advair Diskus is commonly prescribed for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 years and older whose disease is not adequately controlled on inhaled corticosteroids alone or whose disease severity clearly warrants initiation of treatment with two maintenance therapies. It is also used for the maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema, who have a history of exacerbations.

Dosage and direction

The dosage of Advair Diskus must be individualized based on disease severity and patient response. For asthma, the recommended starting dose for patients not currently on an inhaled corticosteroid is 100/50 or 250/50 (fluticasone/salmeterol in mcg) twice daily. For patients already on inhaled corticosteroids, dosage should be based on the previous corticosteroid dose. For COPD, the recommended dose is 250/50 twice daily. Administer by oral inhalation only, with doses approximately 12 hours apart. Patients should rinse their mouth without swallowing after inhalation to reduce the risk of oropharyngeal candidiasis.

Precautions

Advair Diskus is not a rescue medication and should not be used to treat acute symptoms. Patients must have a short-acting beta2-agonist available for rescue use. Long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonists may increase the risk of asthma-related death; therefore, Advair Diskus should only be used for patients not adequately controlled on other asthma-controller medications. Caution is advised in patients with cardiovascular disorders, convulsive disorders, thyrotoxicosis, diabetes, or ketoacidosis. Systemic and local corticosteroid effects, such as adrenal suppression or oropharyngeal candidiasis, may occur. Patients should be monitored for increased blood pressure, heart rate, or decreased serum potassium.

Contraindications

Advair Diskus is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to fluticasone propionate, salmeterol, or any ingredient in the formulation. It is also contraindicated for the primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required. Use is contraindicated without a prior asthma-controller medication in patients with asthma, due to the increased risk of asthma-related death associated with LABAs.

Possible side effects

Common side effects include upper respiratory tract infection, throat irritation, hoarseness, headaches, and oropharyngeal candidiasis. Less common but serious side effects may include pneumonia (in COPD patients), cardiovascular effects (e.g., tachycardia, palpitations), increased blood pressure, paradoxical bronchospasm, immunosuppression, reduced bone mineral density, glaucoma, cataracts, and adrenal insufficiency. Patients should report any signs of infection, vision changes, or decreased response to therapy.

Drug interaction

Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) may increase fluticasone systemic exposure and the risk of systemic corticosteroid effects. Beta-blockers may antagonize the effects of salmeterol and produce severe bronchospasm. Use with other products containing LABAs is not recommended due to increased risk of adverse cardiovascular effects. Diuretics or xanthine derivatives may potentiate hypokalemia or ECG changes. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants may potentiate the cardiovascular effects of salmeterol.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Overdosage may lead to exaggeration of known pharmacologic effects, such as tachycardia, arrhythmias, tremors, headaches, and hyperglycemia. Cardiac arrest and even death may occur. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended, with attention to cardiac and respiratory status. There is no known specific antidote.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C) in a dry place away from direct heat or sunlight. Keep in the unopened foil pouch until ready for use. Discard 1 month after opening the foil pouch or when the dose counter reads “0,” whichever comes first. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

Clinical studies and patient reports generally indicate that Advair Diskus is effective in improving lung function and reducing exacerbations in appropriately selected patients with asthma or COPD. Many users report better symptom control and quality of life with regular use. However, individual responses may vary, and some patients may experience side effects or find the device challenging to use correctly. Always discuss your experience with your healthcare provider to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.