What is Advair Diskus?
Advair Diskus (fluticasone/salmeterol) is a fixed-dose combination medication first approved by the FDA in 2000. It is an inhalation powder, not an aerosol like most metered-dose inhalers. To use it, you breathe in deeply through your mouth so the medication reaches your lungs.
It treats symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. COPD includes conditions like chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Asthma is a chronic condition where inflammation makes the airways overly sensitive. Triggers can include viruses, allergens, irritants, and even emotions.
This guide will cover common and serious side effects, usage instructions, drug interactions, and more.
Advair Diskus FAQs
What is Advair Diskus used to treat?
It is FDA-approved for:
- Asthma in patients 4 years and older
- Maintenance treatment of COPD
It is not for acute asthma attacks.
How does it work?
- Fluticasone propionate: a corticosteroid that reduces lung inflammation
- Salmeterol: a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) that relaxes airway muscles
What dosage forms are available?
- 100 mcg/50 mcg
- 250 mcg/50 mcg
- 500 mcg/50 mcg
How should it be used?
One inhalation twice daily, about 12 hours apart. Use exactly as prescribed.
Common side effects
- Upper respiratory infection
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Bronchitis
- Cough
- Nausea and vomiting
- Throat irritation
- Hoarseness
Other possible side effects
- Dizziness
- Oral thrush
- Stomach discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Muscle pain
Serious side effects
- Allergic reactions (hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Acute bronchospasm (worsened breathing)
- Increased infection risk (fever, chills, body aches)
- Hormone level changes (fatigue, nausea, low blood pressure)
- Delayed growth in children
- Eye problems (vision changes, cataracts, glaucoma)
- Heart issues (irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure)
- Low potassium levels (muscle cramps, weakness)
- Weakened bones and osteoporosis
Drug interactions
- Ritonavir and ketoconazole (CYP3A4 inhibitors)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline)
- MAO inhibitors (phenelzine)
- Beta-blockers (atenolol)
- Diuretics (furosemide)
Who should not take Advair Diskus?
People allergic to fluticasone, salmeterol, or milk proteins. Also avoid if you have:
- Heart conditions
- Seizures
- Thyroid disorders
- Diabetes
- Liver disease
- Osteoporosis
- Eye conditions like glaucoma
- Infections (herpes, TB)
- Exposure to measles/chickenpox
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Is Advair Diskus a steroid?
Yes. It contains fluticasone (a steroid) and salmeterol (a LABA).
Storage instructions
Keep at 68–77°F (20–25°C) in the original foil pouch until use. Do not wash or use with a spacer. Discard 1 month after opening or when the dose counter reads 0.
Missed dose?
Skip it and take the next dose at the regular time. Do not double up.
Difference between Advair Diskus and Advair HFA?
- Advair Diskus: powder inhaled deeply
- Advair HFA: aerosol with a propellant
Related medications
- Advair HFA (fluticasone/salmeterol)
- Flovent Diskus
- Dulera
- Symbicort
- Breo Ellipta
- Trelegy Ellipta