Advair Risks

Although many people do not experience any problems while taking Advair® (fluticasone and salmeterol), this medication is not free of risks. Some of the most common risks reported with Advair include:
 
  • Upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold
  • Headaches
  • A sore throat
  • Bronchitis
  • Coughing
  • Nausea and vomiting.
     
If any problems do occur, they tend to be minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. However, there are some potentially serious Advair risks that require immediate medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience serious problems such as:
 
  • Breathing problems that are becoming worse
  • An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
  • High blood sugar
  • Agitation, aggression, anxiety, or restlessness
  • Depression
  • Eye problems, including glaucoma or cataracts
  • A frequent or severe infection of any type
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including an unexplained rash, hives, itching, unexplained swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.
     
Other Advair warnings and precautions apply to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as people who have certain allergies (including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives).
 
(Click Advair Side Effects and Advair Warnings and Precautions for more information on possible Advair risks that may occur while taking this medication, including potentially serious problems that may require immediate medical care.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;