Advair Diskus: Dual-Action Control for Asthma and COPD
Advair Diskus
| Product dosage: 250mcg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per accuhaler | Price | Buy |
| 1 | $84.00 | $84.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 2 | $69.50 | $168.00 $139.00 (17%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 3 | $64.33 | $252.00 $193.00 (23%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 4 | $62.00 | $336.00 $248.00 (26%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 5 | $60.40
Best per accuhaler | $420.00 $302.00 (28%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Advair Diskus is a prescription-only combination inhaler designed for the long-term maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It combines two distinct medications—a corticosteroid (fluticasone propionate) to reduce inflammation and a long-acting bronchodilator (salmeterol) to relax airway muscles—in a single, easy-to-use device. This dual-mechanism approach provides comprehensive airway management, helping to prevent symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. It is not intended for immediate relief of acute bronchospasm.
Features
- Contains fluticasone propionate (an inhaled corticosteroid) and salmeterol (a long-acting beta₂-adrenergic agonist)
- Delivered via a unique Diskus® dry powder inhaler device
- Available in multiple strength combinations (e.g., 100/50, 250/50, 500/50 mcg)
- Pre-metered doses; no need to shake or prime
- Dose counter indicates remaining inhalations
Benefits
- Reduces frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations
- Improves lung function and overall breathing capacity
- Helps maintain day and night symptom control
- Decreases reliance on short-acting rescue inhalers
- May enhance quality of life through sustained disease management
- Convenient twice-daily dosing supports adherence
Common use
Advair Diskus is indicated for the twice-daily maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 years and older. It is also used for maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction and reducing exacerbations in patients with COPD.
Dosage and direction
The dosage must be individualized based on disease severity and prior therapy. For asthma: usual starting dose for adults and children 12 years and older is 100/50 mcg or 250/50 mcg twice daily. For COPD: 250/50 mcg twice daily. Administer one inhalation twice daily (approximately 12 hours apart). Do not exceed two inhalations in 24 hours. Rinse mouth with water after each use to reduce risk of oral candidiasis.
Precautions
- Not for use as a rescue medication during acute episodes
- Increased risk of pneumonia in patients with COPD
- May cause systemic corticosteroid effects with long-term use
- Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, seizures, or diabetes
- Monitor for signs of adrenal insufficiency, especially during stress or after withdrawal
- Potential for paradoxical bronchospasm—discontinue if it occurs
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fluticasone, salmeterol, or milk proteins
- Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes
- Severe hypersensitivity to lactose (contains milk proteins)
Possible side effects
Common side effects may include:
- Headache
- Throat irritation
- Hoarseness or dysphonia
- Oral candidiasis (thrush)
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Cough
Serious side effects (seek medical attention if experienced):
- Increased blood pressure or heart rate
- Chest pain
- Tremors or nervousness
- Signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills)
- Adrenal insufficiency (e.g., fatigue, weakness, nausea)
- Osteoporosis or reduced bone mineral density with long-term use
- Glaucoma or cataracts
- Hypokalemia
Drug interaction
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) may increase systemic exposure to salmeterol
- Beta-blockers may reduce effectiveness and cause bronchospasm
- Diuretics or xanthine derivatives may potentiate hypokalemia or ECG changes
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants may potentiate cardiovascular effects
Missed dose
Take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to exaggerated pharmacologic effects such as tachycardia, arrhythmias, tremor, hypertension, hypokalemia, and seizures. Cardiac arrest may occur. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. There is no known specific antidote.
Storage
Store at room temperature (68°–77°F/20°–25°C) in a dry place away from moisture and direct light. Keep in the foil pouch until ready to use. Discard 1 month after opening the foil pouch or when the dose counter reads “0,” whichever comes first. Do not store in the bathroom or freezer. 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
(Compiled from clinical studies and patient-reported outcomes)
- “Significant improvement in morning peak flow readings and reduced nighttime awakenings.”
- “Effective at controlling moderate persistent asthma with consistent use.”
- “Dose counter is helpful for tracking usage; device is easy to teach and learn.”
- “Some users report throat irritation or hoarseness, which improved with rinsing.”
- “Not a rescue inhaler—patients should be clearly counseled on its maintenance role.”