Drug Description:
Advair Diskus (fluticasone propionate-salmeterol) is an oral inhalation indicated for controlling and preventing asthma and maintenance treatment for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Note: Advair Diskus is not indicated for acute bronchospasm and asthma that can be managed by corticosteroid inhalation.
This inhalation powder has fluticasone propionate and salmeterol as its active components. Fluticasone propionate is a form of synthetic corticosteroid that has potent anti-inflammatory effects. It can inhibit multiple cell types and mediator secretion that has something to do with inflammation. On the other hand, salmeterol is a long-lasting inhibitor of mast cell mediators. It can weaken allergen-induced bronchial hypersensitivity.
Directions
Go through the medication guide or leaflet before starting this medication. Follow your doctor’s instructions when using this inhalation. Talk to your doctor about your medical history and any medical condition you still have.
Advair Diskus dosage depends on the patient’s age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Use this medication regularly and at evenly spaced times. As much as possible, use it at exact times of the day, every day. Do not increase or stop the use of this medication without your doctor’s advice. If you miss your dose, skip that missed dose and go back to your regular medication schedule. Do not take two doses of this inhalation simultaneously as it may result in an overdose.
Here are the steps on how to use Advair Diskus:
- To open your Advair Diskus, hold it with your left hand and place your right thumb on the thumb grip. Then, push the thumb grip away from you until you see the mouthpiece and it snaps into place.
- Hold it in a flat, horizontal-level position with the mouthpiece towards you and then slide the lever away from the mouthpiece up until you hear a click. When number “1” shows at the counter, it means it is ready for use.
- Exhale for as long as you can, hold the Advair Diskus mouth-level, but few inches away.
- Hold your breath as you put the mouthpiece to your lips.
- Inhale or breathe in quickly and deeply through the mouthpiece. Do not breathe in through your nostrils.
- Remove the Advair Diskus from your mouth and hold your breath for no less than ten seconds.
- Breathe out as slowly as you can. You may or may not taste fine powder at this point.
- To close the Advair Diskus, place your thumb on the thumb grip again and slide it back towards you. Make sure that it will click shut. Store it in a dry place and at room temperature.
- Rinse your mouth with water after inhaling Advair Diskus. Spit the water and do not swallow it.
Dispose Advair Diskus properly one month after opening the foil pouch or when the counter says “0” – whichever comes first.
Side effects
Some common Advair Diskus side effects you may experience are:
-headache
-nausea
-vomiting
-throat irritation
-hoarseness
-ear pain or trouble hearing
-muscle pain
If you experience severe and persistent side effects, contact your physician or any healthcare provider immediately. Some of the severe adverse reactions to look out for are breathing problems, fever, chills, chest pain, severe headache, eye pain or seeing halos around lights, increased blood sugar, and low potassium level.
Precautions
Talk to your doctor about your medical history or any medical condition you may have. This medication might increase your risk of experiencing side effects if you had a history of hypertension, heart disease, bone loss, hormonal problems, diabetes, eye problem, liver disease, or infections like tuberculosis.
Avoid taking Advair Diskus if you have an allergy to fluticasone propionate, salmeterol, or any ingredients this oral inhalation may have, such as milk proteins.
Observe good hygiene practices at all times and stay away from people who have an infection. This medication could mask signs of infection. Thus, it could worsen any infection you will get while on this medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Advair Diskus take to work?
It may take one week or a few weeks to experience the full effects of Advair Diskus.
What are the available doses of Advair Diskus?
It is available in Advair Diskus 100/50, Advair Diskus 250/50, and Advair Diskus 500 50.
Is Advair Diskus safe for children?
It is safe for children four years old and above. However, it may increase their risk for growing slowly.
Is it safe to use Advair Diskus while pregnant?
It is still unknown whether Advair Diskus could affect an unborn child.
Can I take Advair Diskus if I am breastfeeding?
It is still unknown whether this oral inhalation could pass through breast milk.
