Advair Diskus

Advair Diskus is a prescription inhaler used to help control and prevent symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It contains a combination of fluticasone propionate, a steroid that reduces lung inflammation, and salmeterol, a long-acting bronchodilator that helps relax the muscles in the airways. Advair Diskus is used regularly to maintain better breathing and reduce flare-ups, but it is not a rescue inhaler for sudden breathing problems.

Benefits

• Helps prevent daily asthma and COPD symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• Reduces inflammation to improve long-term lung function.
• Keeps airways open with long-lasting bronchodilation.
• Lowers the frequency of asthma attacks and COPD exacerbations when used consistently.

Dosage

• For adults and adolescents (12 years and older) with asthma, one inhalation twice daily (approximately 12 hours apart).
• For adults with COPD, one inhalation twice daily, as prescribed depending on severity.
• Maximum benefit is typically reached after one week of regular use.
• Not recommended for children under 12 without a doctor’s guidance.
• Always follow your doctor’s prescribed dose and instructions.

Warnings and Precautions

• Do not use to treat sudden asthma or COPD attacks—use a fast-acting rescue inhaler for emergencies.
• Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart problems, high blood pressure, thyroid issues, seizures, or infections.
• Rinse your mouth after each dose to reduce the risk of developing oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth).
• Long-term steroid use may affect bone health; discuss with your doctor if you are at risk of osteoporosis.
• Use caution if exposed to infections like chickenpox or measles, especially if not immune.

Usage Instructions

• Hold the Diskus flat and open it until you hear a click.
• Slide the lever until it clicks to prepare a dose.
• Breathe out fully (away from the Diskus), place the mouthpiece in your mouth, and inhale quickly and deeply.
• Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then exhale slowly.
• Close the Diskus after use.
• Do not shake the Diskus and do not exhale into the device.

Storage Information

• Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F).
• Keep the Diskus dry and away from moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Discard the inhaler one month after opening or after the labeled number of doses is used, whichever comes first.

Common Side Effects

• Hoarseness or throat irritation
• Headache
• Nausea
• Cough
• Dizziness
• Fungal infections (oral thrush) if proper mouth rinsing is not done