Why is this medication prescribed?

Advair Diskus is prescribed to help manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It contains two medications: fluticasone, a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, and salmeterol, a long-acting beta-agonist that helps relax the muscles around the airways to improve airflow. This combination helps to control symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing.

How should this medicine be used?

Advair Diskus should be used according to your healthcare provider’s instructions. Here’s a general guide:

• Open the Diskus: Slide the cover down until it clicks. This will expose the mouthpiece and prepare the inhaler for use.
• Prepare the Dose: Hold the Diskus away from your mouth and slide the lever to release a dose of the medication. You should hear a click, which means the dose is ready.
• Inhale the Medication: Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and breathe in deeply and quickly. Make sure to take a full, deep breath to ensure you get the full dose of medication.
• Hold Your Breath: After inhaling, hold your breath for about 10 seconds or as long as you comfortably can to allow the medication to settle in your lungs.
• Close the Diskus: Slide the cover back over the mouthpiece to protect it and to reset the dose counter.
• Rinse Your Mouth: After using Advair Diskus, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to help reduce the risk of oral thrush (a fungal infection).

Make sure to use Advair Diskus regularly, even if you feel fine, and follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s working effectively for you.

Other uses for this medicine

Advair Diskus is primarily used for managing asthma and COPD. It’s not typically used for acute asthma attacks or sudden breathing problems; it’s meant for ongoing management and prevention of symptoms. If you need medication for quick relief of an asthma attack, your doctor might prescribe a rescue inhaler, such as a short-acting beta-agonist.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Follow Dosage Instructions: Stick to the prescribed dose and frequency. Do not use more than instructed, as overuse can lead to side effects or reduced effectiveness.
• Do Not Stop Abruptly: Do not suddenly stop using Advair Diskus without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you feel better. Your condition might worsen if you stop suddenly.
• Regular Check-Ups: Regularly see your doctor to monitor your condition and adjust the medication if necessary.
• Infection Risk: Rinse your mouth after each use to prevent oral thrush. If you develop a white coating or sores in your mouth or throat, inform your doctor.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider of all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as they might interact with Advair.
• Pre-existing Conditions: If you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other significant health issues, let your doctor know, as these conditions might be affected by Advair Diskus.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, or swelling, seek medical help immediately.
• Proper Use: Ensure you are using the Diskus properly to get the full benefit of the medication. If you have trouble using it, ask your healthcare provider for a demonstration.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your specific health needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions directly related to Advair Diskus. However, maintaining a healthy diet can support overall lung health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage asthma and COPD. Additionally, if you experience side effects like thrush, maintaining good oral hygiene and possibly adjusting your diet may be beneficial.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take it as Soon as Possible: If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as you can.
• Skip the Missed Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for the missed dose.
• Resume Regular Schedule: Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you miss doses frequently or have concerns about missed doses, discuss this with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Advair Diskus can cause various side effects. While not everyone will experience them, it’s important to be aware of potential issues. Common and less severe side effects include:

• Throat Irritation: Sore throat or dry mouth.
• Hoarseness: Changes in voice or voice loss.
• Cough: Persistent cough after using the inhaler.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches.

More serious side effects may include:

• Oral Thrush: Fungal infection in the mouth or throat, causing white patches, soreness, or difficulty swallowing.
• Increased Heart Rate: Palpitations or rapid heartbeat.
• Chest Pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest.
• High Blood Pressure: Elevated blood pressure.
• Mood Changes: Anxiety, depression, or irritability.
• Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing.

If you experience any severe side effects or symptoms that concern you, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe chest pain, seek medical attention immediately. Always report any side effects to your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance on how to manage them and adjust your treatment if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Advair Diskus:

• Storage:
  • Keep Dry: Store Advair Diskus at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. The device should be kept in a dry place.
  • Temperature: Avoid storing it in extreme temperatures, such as in a bathroom where humidity can be high.
• Disposal:
  • Follow Local Guidelines: Dispose of Advair Diskus according to local regulations. Many areas have specific guidelines for disposing of medications.
  • Do Not Flush: Do not flush Advair Diskus down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority.
  • Consult Your Pharmacist: If you’re unsure about how to dispose of it, ask your pharmacist or local waste management service for advice.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose, contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Symptoms of an overdose might include chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or severe headache.
• Contact Poison Control: You can also call your local poison control center for guidance.
• Severe Reaction: If you experience symptoms such as severe difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe chest pain, seek emergency medical help immediately.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regularly visit your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and adjust your medication if necessary.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Always inform your healthcare providers about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Emergency Plan: Have an action plan in place for asthma or COPD exacerbations. Make sure you know what to do in case of an asthma attack or worsening of symptoms.
• Medical Alert: Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or carrying an identification card that lists your condition and medication, especially if you have severe asthma or COPD.
• Proper Use: Ensure you know how to use Advair Diskus correctly. Misuse can reduce effectiveness and increase side effects.

If you have any specific questions or concerns about your medication, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.