Advair Diskus is a combination inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (ICS/LABA) medication designed for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It delivers two complementary medications—fluticasone propionate and salmeterol—in a single, easy-to-use inhalation device. This dual-action formulation addresses both airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction, providing a foundational therapy for patients requiring more than a single-agent inhaler. Clinically proven to improve lung function and reduce exacerbations, it is indicated for patients aged 4 years and older with asthma and adults with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema.

Features

• Contains fluticasone propionate (an inhaled corticosteroid) and salmeterol (a long-acting bronchodilator)
• Available in multiple strength combinations: 100/50, 250/50, and 500/50 mcg
• Delivered via a breath-actuated Diskus device; no hand-breath coordination required
• Each blister contains a pre-measured powder dose
• Built-in dose counter to track remaining medication
• Does not require shaking or priming

Benefits

• Reduces frequency and severity of asthma attacks and COPD exacerbations
• Improves lung function (FEV1) and overall breathing capacity
• Decreases reliance on short-acting rescue inhalers
• Helps control underlying airway inflammation over time
• Convenient twice-daily dosing supports adherence
• May improve quality of life and daily activity tolerance

Common use

Advair Diskus is prescribed for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 and older where a combination therapy is indicated. It is also used for the maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction and reducing exacerbations in patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema. It is not intended for the relief of acute bronchospasm.

Dosage and direction

For asthma: The recommended starting dosage is based on prior asthma therapy and disease severity. Typical adult and adolescent doses are one inhalation of Advair Diskus 100/50, 250/50, or 500/50 twice daily (approximately 12 hours apart). For COPD: The recommended dose is one inhalation of Advair Diskus 250/50 twice daily. Patients should rinse their mouth without swallowing after inhalation to reduce the risk of oropharyngeal candidiasis. The Diskus device should never be washed and must be kept dry.

Precautions

• Not for use as a rescue medication during acute episodes
• Increased risk of pneumonia in patients with COPD
• May cause systemic corticosteroid effects with long-term use, such as adrenal suppression
• Caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, convulsive disorders, or thyrotoxicosis
• Monitor for signs and symptoms of hypercorticism and hypokalemia
• Use with caution in patients with diabetes; may increase blood glucose

Contraindications

• Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD
• Severe hypersensitivity to milk proteins or any ingredient in the formulation
• Not recommended for use in patients experiencing significantly worsening or acutely deteriorating asthma

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Throat irritation
• Hoarseness or dysphonia
• Oropharyngeal candidiasis (thrush)
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Cough
• Tremor
• Palpitations

Serious side effects may include:

• Increased risk of pneumonia (in COPD patients)
• Paradoxical bronchospasm
• Cardiovascular effects (e.g., elevated blood pressure, tachycardia)
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Reduced bone mineral density
• Glaucoma and cataracts
• Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, rash, urticaria)

Drug interaction

• Should not be used with other long-acting beta2-agonists due to increased risk of adverse cardiovascular effects
• Ketoconazole and other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase fluticasone systemic exposure
• Diuretics may worsen hypokalemia or ECG changes
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants may potentiate cardiovascular effects
• Beta-blockers may antagonize the effects of salmeterol and produce severe bronchospasm

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Resume the regular dosing schedule.

Overdose

Overdosage may lead to excessive beta-adrenergic stimulation and/or systemic corticosteroid effects. Symptoms may include tachycardia, arrhythmias, tremor, headache, muscle cramps, dry mouth, and nausea. Hypokalemia may also occur. Supportive measures and symptomatic treatment are recommended. Cardiac monitoring is advised in cases of significant overdose.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C) in a dry place. Keep in the original foil pouch until immediately before use. Do not store in moist or humid conditions (e.g., bathrooms). Discard the device 1 month after removal from the foil pouch or when the counter reads “0,” whichever comes first. Keep out of reach of children.

Disclaimer

This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this product card.

Reviews

Clinical studies and patient reports consistently note improved symptom control and reduced exacerbation frequency with Advair Diskus. Many users report better quality of life and increased activity tolerance. Some note the convenience of the Diskus device, though a minority report difficulty with inhalation technique or mild throat irritation. Always discuss individual experiences and treatment efficacy with a healthcare provider.