Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Fluticasone and salmeterol are utilized for the management and prevention of symptoms related to asthma, such as wheezing and shortness of breath. Fluticasone is classified as a corticosteroid, which effectively mitigates airway irritation and inflammation. Salmeterol belongs to the group of long-acting beta agonists, which function by inducing relaxation of the muscles that encircle the airways, thus promoting improved breathing capacity.
The administration of this medication is warranted in cases where standard asthma-control medication (e.g., inhaled corticosteroid) has not adequately controlled breathing difficulties or when a combination treatment approach is necessary to address asthma symptoms. This medication does not provide immediate relief and should not be utilized for sudden asthma attacks.
Uses and Dosage
Fluticasone and salmeterol are available in both powder and inhalation solution forms, which are administered by mouth through a specialized inhaler. Typically, the medication is used twice a day, with a 12-hour interval between doses, ideally at the same time every day. Adhere to the recommended dosage and do not use the medication more frequently or in larger amounts than prescribed.
During your treatment with salmeterol and fluticasone inhalation, discuss with your doctor how to take other oral or inhaled asthma medications. If you have been regularly using a short-acting beta-agonist inhaler like albuterol, your doctor may advise you to cease regular use but to continue using it for unexpected asthma symptoms. Comply with these directives and do not modify your medication usage or stop taking any prescribed medication without first consulting your physician.
Do not use fluticasone and salmeterol during an asthma or COPD attack. Your doctor will recommend a short-acting inhaler for use during attacks.
Fluticasone and salmeterol inhalation helps to control symptoms of certain lung conditions but does not cure them. It may take up to a week or longer for the full therapeutic effects to become noticeable.
Continue using fluticasone and salmeterol inhalation, even if you feel well. Do not discontinue usage without consulting your doctor, as this may cause a relapse of symptoms.
Before using fluticasone and salmeterol inhalation for the first time, review the instructions provided in the packaging carefully. Request your physician, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist to demonstrate how to use the inhaler, and practice using it under supervision to confirm that you are using it correctly.
If your child is using fluticasone and salmeterol inhalation, ensure that they know how to use it. Observe them each time they use the inhaler to verify that they are using it correctly.
Do not exhale into the inhaler, dismantle the inhaler, or wash any part of the inhaler, including the mouthpiece. Keep the inhaler dry, and avoid using it with a spacer.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- runny nose
- sneezing
- sore throat
- throat irritation
- sinus pain
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- muscle and bone pain
- dizziness
- weakness
- tiredness
- sweating
- tooth pain
- shaking of a part of your body that you cannot control
- sleep problems
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness that begins soon after you inhale fluticasone and salmeterol
- hives
- rash
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- choking or difficulty swallowing
- hoarseness
- noisy, high-pitched breathing
- pounding fast, or irregular heartbeat
- fainting
- chest pain
- cough
- burning or tingling in the hands or feet
- white patches in the mouth
- fever, chills, and other signs of infection
Caution
Prior to using this medication, inform your physician or pharmacist of any allergies you have, particularly to fluticasone or salmeterol, or any other allergies. This product may contain inactive components that could provoke allergic reactions or other issues.
Before using this medication, disclose your medical history, particularly of current or past infections, high blood pressure, bone loss (osteoporosis), heart disease, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), diabetes, eye problems, seizures, or liver disease, to your doctor or pharmacist.
Salmeterol might cause a heart rhythm condition (QT prolongation) that can rarely result in severe fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms that necessitate immediate medical attention.
Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also raise your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you take certain medications (such as diuretics/”water pills”) or if you have conditions like severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.
This medication may conceal signs of infection, making you more susceptible to infections or worsening any existing infections. Avoid contact with individuals who have infections that can spread to others. If you have been exposed to an infection or require more information, consult your doctor.
If you have switched from a corticosteroid taken by mouth (such as prednisone tablets) to this inhaler within the past 12 months, or if you have been using this product in higher-than-usual doses for an extended period, your body may find it more difficult to respond to physical stress. Before having surgery or emergency treatment or if you get a serious illness/injury, inform your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication or have taken a corticosteroid by mouth within the last 12 months. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience unusual or extreme fatigue or weight loss.
Older adults with COPD may be at a higher risk of pneumonia when taking this medication. Older adults may also be more sensitive to the drug’s adverse effects, particularly QT prolongation.
This medication may temporarily slow down a child’s growth if used for an extended period. Poorly controlled asthma can also impede growth. Visit the doctor regularly to keep track of your child’s height.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used if it is absolutely necessary. Consult your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits.
It is unclear if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
AirDuo RespiClick is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
AirDuo RespiClick inhalation powder:
- 232/14mcg
-
fluticasone and salmeterol inhalation powder:
- 55/14mcg
- 113/14mcg
- 232/14mcg
FAQ
Is AirDuo RespiClick the same as Advair?
AirDuo RespiClick uses the same ingredients in Advair, however in slightly different dosages and a different delivery device.
Is AirDuo RespiClick a steroid?
AirDuo RespiClick is a steroid and bronchodilator combination medicine.
Resources
- https://www.rxlist.com/airduo-respiclick-drug.htm
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699063.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-173546/airduo-respiclick-inhalation/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/fluticasone-and-salmeterol-inhalation-route/side-effects/drg-20063110?p=1
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/airduo-respiclick.html
