What is Advair Diskus?
FLUTICASONE and SALMETEROL inhalation is for treating asthma that is not controlled with other asthma medicines or when more than one treatment is necessary. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid which decreases inflammation in the lungs. Salmeterol helps open the airways in the lungs. This medicine is intended for regular use. It will not cure your condition, but when used regularly it can open up your air passages and make breathing easier. It will not relieve an acute asthma attack. Fluticasone; salmeterol can be used along with other inhaled or oral asthma medications.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take Advair Diskus?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- an asthmatic attack or bronchospasm
- chicken pox or measles (recent exposure or infection)
- diabetes
- heart disease including high blood pressure, irregular heart beat, blockage in heart vessels
- immune system problems
- infection, especially fungal infection or tuberculosis
- liver disease
- osteoporosis or other bone disease
- overactive thyroid
- pheochromocytoma
- seizures
- an unusual or allergic reaction to Fluticasone, Salmeterol, other corticosteroids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should this medicine be used?
DO NOT use this medicine for an asthma attack. If you have severe onset or worsening of cough, wheezing, chest tightness, and/or shortness of breath seek immediate medical attention. Always keep a short-acting asthma medication such as albuterol on hand for asthma attacks.
This medicine is for inhalation through the mouth. Shake the inhaler well for 5 seconds before each spray. Prime the inhaler before the first use with 4 test sprays pointing away from your face. If you drop the inhaler or of it has not been used for 4 weeks, prime it with 2 test sprays pointing away from your face. Avoid contact with eyes. After using the inhaler, rinse your mouth with water to minimize build-up of medicine; do not swallow the water. Clean your inhaler at least once a week. Never place the inhaler in water to determine how much medicine is in it. Do not use more than the recommended dose.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Don't share it with others.
What if I miss a dose of Advair Diskus?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose and continue with your regular schedule, spacing doses evenly. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with Advair Diskus?
- arsenic trioxide
- astemizole
- bepridil
- beta-blockers, often used for high blood pressure or heart problems
- caffeine
- certain antibiotics (such as clarithromycin, erythromycin, gatifloxacin, gemifloxacin, grepafloxacin, levofloxacin, linezolid, moxifloxacin, sparfloxacin)
- chloroquine
- cisapride
- droperidol
- halofantrine
- levomethadyl
- medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
- medicines for heart disease or high blood pressure
- medicines known as MAO inhibitors, such as phenelzine (Nardil