Advair (Cont.)

Advair Effects

 
Advair for Asthma
In clinical studies involving Advair and asthma, the medicine was shown to improve breathing better than when either of the active ingredients of Advair (fluticasone or salmeterol) was used alone. Sometimes, asthma medications can make asthma symptoms worse. In one study, only 3 percent of people taking Advair had to stop the medication due to worsening asthma, compared to 11 percent of those taking fluticasone alone, 35 percent of those taking salmeterol alone, and 49 percent of those taking neither medication.
 
Advair for COPD
In studies of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Advair was given to people with COPD associated with chronic bronchitis. People taking Advair showed improved lung function, compared to those not taking Advair.
 

When and How to Take Advair

Advair comes in two forms -- the Advair Diskus, which contains dry powder, and the Advair HFA inhaler, a more traditional inhaler.
 

How to Use the Advair Diskus

Following are some general considerations for when and how to use the Advair Diskus:
 
  • Advair is inhaled into the lungs, usually twice daily, with about 12 hours between doses.
     
  • The Advair Diskus is used differently than older inhalers. It contains small foil pockets that contain the powder. These pockets are punctured (by sliding the lever until it clicks), and the powder is inhaled using your own breath.
     
  • Rinse out your mouth (without swallowing) after each dose, in order to prevent thrush.
     
  • Be sure to keep the Advair Diskus horizontal while using it (otherwise the powder can spill out). Never exhale into the inhaler, as this will also disrupt the powder.
     
  • It is important to learn exactly how to use your Advair Diskus. It may be difficult at first and may require some practice.
     
  • Some people may not taste or feel the fine powder.

 

  • Advair should be taken at the same time each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your blood.
     
  • For Advair to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Advair will not work if you stop taking it.
     
(Advair Continued: Page 3)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;