Advair Diskus: Dual-Action Control for Asthma and COPD
| Product dosage: 250mcg | |||
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| 5 | $51.94
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Advair Diskus is a combination inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (ICS/LABA) indicated for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 years and older and for the maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema. It is designed to reduce inflammation and bronchoconstriction, offering a comprehensive approach to managing obstructive airway diseases. This medication is not indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm.
Features
- Contains fluticasone propionate (an inhaled corticosteroid) and salmeterol (a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist)
- Available in multiple strength combinations: 100/50, 250/50, and 500/50 mcg (fluticasone/salmeterol)
- Delivered via a breath-activated Diskus device for ease of administration
- Each dose is pre-measured, eliminating the need for shaking or priming
- Designed for twice-daily maintenance therapy
Benefits
- Provides dual mechanism of action to address both inflammation and bronchoconstriction
- Reduces the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations
- Improves lung function as measured by FEV1
- Decreases the need for rescue inhaler use in asthma patients
- Helps maintain day and night symptom control in appropriate patient populations
- May improve quality of life scores in COPD patients when used appropriately
Common use
Advair Diskus is commonly prescribed for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients whose symptoms are not adequately controlled on inhaled corticosteroids alone or whose disease severity clearly warrants initiation of treatment with two maintenance therapies. In COPD, it is indicated for the maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction and to reduce exacerbations in patients with a history of exacerbations. It is typically used as a long-term control medication rather than for immediate symptom relief.
Dosage and direction
For asthma treatment in patients 4 years and older: The recommended starting dosage is based on disease severity and prior therapy. The usual starting dose is 100/50 mcg or 250/50 mcg twice daily (approximately 12 hours apart). For COPD: The recommended dosage is one inhalation of Advair Diskus 250/50 mcg twice daily. Patients should be instructed to inhale deeply and rapidly through the Diskus device and to rinse their mouth with water without swallowing after each dose to help reduce the risk of oropharyngeal candidiasis.
Precautions
- Not for use as a rescue medication for acute symptoms
- May increase the risk of pneumonia in patients with COPD
- May cause systemic corticosteroid effects with high doses or prolonged use
- Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension
- May produce paradoxical bronchospasm that requires immediate discontinuation
- Monitor patients for changes in bone mineral density with long-term use
- Use the lowest effective dose to minimize systemic effects
Contraindications
- Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required
- Severe hypersensitivity to milk proteins or any components of the formulation
- Use to treat acute symptoms or as a rescue medication
Possible side effects
Common side effects may include:
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Throat irritation
- Hoarseness/dysphonia
- Headache
- Oral candidiasis
- Cough
Serious side effects requiring medical attention:
- Paradoxical bronchospasm
- Cardiovascular effects (tachycardia, palpitations)
- Increased risk of pneumonia in COPD patients
- Adrenal suppression
- Reduced bone mineral density
- Glaucoma and cataracts with long-term use
- Hypersensitivity reactions
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
- Beta-blockers may antagonize the effects of salmeterol and produce severe bronchospasm
- Diuretics may potentiate hypokalemia or ECG changes
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants may potentiate the cardiovascular effects of salmeterol
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, patients should take it as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
Overdosage may produce excessive beta-adrenergic stimulation and/or systemic corticosteroid effects. Symptoms may include angina, hypertension or hypotension, tachycardia, arrhythmias, nervousness, headache, tremor, muscle cramps, dry mouth, palpitation, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, malaise, and hypokalemia. Cardiac arrest and even death may occur. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic with appropriate monitoring.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C) in a dry place away from direct heat or sunlight. Keep in the original foil pouch until immediately before use. Discard 1 month after opening the foil pouch or when the counter reads “0,” whichever comes first. Keep out of reach of children.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Advair Diskus should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Patients should not adjust their dosage or discontinue treatment without consulting their physician. Individual results may vary, and not all patients will experience the same benefits or side effects.
Reviews
Clinical studies have demonstrated that Advair Diskus significantly improves lung function and reduces exacerbation rates compared to monocomponent therapy. In asthma patients, it has shown superior efficacy in improving morning peak expiratory flow and reducing symptom scores. COPD studies have demonstrated reduced exacerbation frequency and improved health status measurements. Real-world evidence supports these findings, though individual patient experiences may vary based on disease severity, adherence, and other factors.