Advair Diskus

Generic ingredients: Fluticasone propionate, Salmeterol

Why is Advair Diskus prescribed?

Advair Diskus is used to control asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) associated with chronic bronchitis. It is an oral inhaler that contains two types of medication. One is fluticasone propionate, a steroid that reduces inflammation in the lungs. The other, salmeterol, is a long-acting bronchodilator that opens up the airways. Together, the two ingredients provide better symptom control than either does individually.

Most important fact about Advair Diskus

Advair Diskus is used for long-term control of asthma and short-term control of COPD associated with bronchitis. The drug won't end a sudden attack. For relief of acute asthma or bronchial symptoms, your doctor will prescribe a short-acting inhaler such as albuterol sulfate.

How should you take Advair Diskus?

Advair Diskus should be used twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. You may be able to taste or feel your dose of Advair Diskus. Do not be concerned, however, if you can't detect anything. You're getting the proper dose whether you can taste the medication or not. Never exceed the recommended dose of one inhalation, twice daily.

Follow the detailed directions that came with the inhaler. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Some important points to keep in mind:

• Do not use a "spacer" with this medication.
• Never exhale into the diskus.
• Do not try to take the diskus apart.
• Always activate and use the diskus in a level, horizontal position.
• It is important to keep the diskus dry?do not wash any part of the mouthpiece or any part of the diskus.
• To reduce the risk of developing an infection in your mouth, rinse your mouth with water after each inhalation without swallowing.

When first using this medication, you may notice some improvement within 30 minutes, but its maximum benefits may take a week or more to appear.