Why is this medication prescribed?

Advair HFA is a prescription medication used to manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It combines two medications:

• Fluticasone propionate is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways.
• Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist that helps relax the muscles around the airways to improve airflow.

Together, these medications help prevent asthma attacks and manage chronic symptoms by reducing inflammation and keeping the airways open. It’s typically used as a long-term treatment, not for quick relief during an acute asthma attack.

How should this medicine be used?

Advair HFA is used as an inhaler, and here’s how you should use it:

• Shake the Inhaler: Before each use, shake the inhaler well for at least 5 seconds.
• Prime the Inhaler: If it’s the first time using the inhaler or if you haven’t used it for a while, you might need to prime it. Follow the instructions on your medication’s label for priming.
• Breathe Out: Before inhaling, exhale completely to empty your lungs.
• Inhale the Medication: Place the mouthpiece between your lips and take a deep, slow breath in through your mouth while pressing down on the inhaler to release the medication.
• Hold Your Breath: After inhaling, hold your breath for about 10 seconds, or as long as comfortable, to allow the medication to reach deep into your lungs.
• Exhale: Breathe out slowly.
• Rinse Your Mouth: After using the inhaler, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to reduce the risk of developing a fungal infection in your mouth.
• Clean the Inhaler: Clean the inhaler regularly as instructed, usually once a week, to ensure it works properly.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or included with your inhaler. If you have any doubts or experience side effects, consult your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine

Advair HFA is primarily used for managing asthma and COPD. However, its role in these conditions might extend to:

• Prevention of Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: It may be prescribed to help prevent breathing difficulties triggered by exercise.
• Long-Term Control: It’s used for long-term control of asthma and COPD symptoms, aiming to reduce the frequency of exacerbations and improve overall lung function.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions for Advair HFA include:

• Not for Acute Relief: Advair HFA is not intended for immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms or sudden breathing difficulties. You should have a rescue inhaler, like albuterol, for these situations.
• Regular Use: Use it regularly as prescribed, even if you feel fine. Skipping doses or stopping the medication abruptly can worsen your condition.
• Monitoring: Regularly check in with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
• Infection Risk: Be aware of the risk of oral fungal infections (thrush). Rinsing your mouth after each use helps minimize this risk.
• Growth Monitoring: In children, long-term use of corticosteroids like fluticasone can potentially affect growth. Regular monitoring is advised.
• Eye Problems: Notify your doctor if you experience vision changes or eye problems, as corticosteroids can sometimes cause increased eye pressure or other issues.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you’re taking, as they might interact with Advair HFA.
• Allergic Reactions: Be aware of potential allergic reactions, including rash, itching, or swelling. If you experience severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Healthy Diet: There are no specific dietary restrictions with Advair HFA, but maintaining a healthy, balanced diet supports overall well-being and may help manage any side effects.
• Calcium and Vitamin D: Long-term use of corticosteroids can affect bone density. Consuming adequate calcium and vitamin D can help mitigate this risk. Consult your doctor for specific recommendations.
• Avoid Excessive Salt: Reducing dietary salt can help manage any potential fluid retention or high blood pressure, though this is a general precaution for steroid use.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take it as Soon as You Remember: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Skip if Close to Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Follow Regular Schedule: Return to your regular dosing schedule.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you miss multiple doses or have questions about how to handle missed doses, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Advair HFA can cause a range of side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Common side effects include:

• Throat Irritation: This may include a sore throat, dry mouth, or hoarseness.
• Cough: Some people experience a cough after using the inhaler.
• Headache: Headaches can occur, although they are generally mild.
• Nausea: Feeling nauseous or upset stomach can happen, though it is less common.

Less common but more serious side effects include:

• Oral Thrush: A fungal infection in the mouth or throat, which can cause white patches or soreness.
• Increased Heart Rate: Some people might experience a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Bone Density Loss: Long-term use of corticosteroids can potentially affect bone density.
• Eye Problems: Such as increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, or cataracts.
• Allergic Reactions: Including rash, itching, swelling, or severe reactions like difficulty breathing.
• Growth Impact: In children, long-term use may potentially affect growth. Regular monitoring is advised.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, or if you notice any unusual symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider for advice. They can provide guidance and adjust your treatment if necessary.

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

Storage and Disposal of Advair HFA:

• Storage:
  • Temperature: Store Advair HFA at room temperature, between 59°F and 77°F (15°C to 25°C). Do not freeze.
  • Avoid Heat: Keep it away from heat and direct sunlight.
  • Keep Dry: Store in a dry place. Avoid getting moisture into the inhaler.
• Disposal:
  • Check Expiration Date: Dispose of the inhaler when it’s expired or if the dose counter indicates that the medication is finished.
  • Follow Local Guidelines: Dispose of the inhaler according to local regulations or pharmacy guidelines. Many pharmacies offer disposal programs for medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Overuse Symptoms: Signs may include increased heart rate, chest pain, or symptoms related to excessive corticosteroid use, such as mood changes or unusual tiredness.
• Contact Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Inform: Provide information about the medication and the amount taken.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor the effectiveness and side effects of the medication.
• Medication Interaction: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as they may interact with Advair HFA.
• Proper Use: Ensure you understand how to use the inhaler correctly to get the maximum benefit from your medication.
• Emergency Plan: Have a plan for managing acute asthma or COPD symptoms, including having a rescue inhaler on hand.
• Inform Your Doctor: Update your healthcare provider about any new or worsening symptoms, or if you experience any side effects.

Following these guidelines will help ensure that you use Advair HFA safely and effectively. If you have any specific concerns or questions about your medication, discussing them with your healthcare provider is always a good idea.