Indications
Advair HFA (active ingredients: fluticasone/salmeterol) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Asthma: Advair HFA is used for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged 12 years and older. It helps to prevent asthma attacks and improve lung function by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the airways.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): It is also indicated for the long-term, twice-daily maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Advair HFA helps to reduce exacerbations and improve lung function by combining an inhaled corticosteroid (fluticasone propionate) with a long-acting beta agonist (salmeterol).
Advair HFA belongs to a class of drugs known as combination long-acting beta agonist and inhaled corticosteroid (LABA/ICS) medications, which work together to provide bronchodilation and anti-inflammatory effects in the airways.
Uses and Dosage
To use Advair HFA inhaler, follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or as provided in the medication guide and follow the following steps.
- Shake the inhaler well before use, remove the mouthpiece cover, and breathe out slowly and completely.
- Place the mouthpiece between your lips and inhale deeply and forcefully.
- Hold your breath for about 30 seconds, then exhale slowly.
- Repeat these steps for the prescribed number of inhalations.
- Rinse your mouth with water after using Advair HFA to help prevent side effects.
- Put the cap back into the inhaler and store the aerosol accordingly.
Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions on how to use Advair HFA or any other medication.
The recommended dosage of Advair HFA can vary depending on factors such as age, severity of the condition, and response to the medication. The maximum recommended dosage is 2 inhalations of Advair HFA 230 mcg/21 mcg twice daily. Additionally, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with water after using Advair HFA to help prevent side effects.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Advair HFA (Fluticasone/Salmeterol):
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth or throat
- Headache
- Hoarseness
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Throat irritation
Serious Side Effects of Advair HFA (Fluticasone/Salmeterol):
- Fainting
- Hypertension or high blood pressure
- Increased thirst
- Insomnia or trouble sleeping
- Muscle cramps
- Seizures
- Severe dizziness
- Signs of an infection (fever, chills, persistent sore throat)
- Sudden worsening of breathing problems
- Tremors
- Vision changes
- White patches on the tongue and mouth
Form and Strength
Advair HFA (Fluticasone/Salmeterol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Advair HFA: Inhaler
- 50/25mcg
- 125/25mcg
- 250/25mcg
Fluticasone/Salmeterol: Inhaler
- 50/25mcg
- 125/25mcg
- 250/25mcg
Caution
- Advair HFA should not be taken with other medicines that contain a LABA component for any reason. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking as well as any health conditions you may have.
- Avoid using Advair HFA if you have a severe allergy to milk proteins or if you are allergic to any ingredients in the medication. If unsure, consult your healthcare provider.
- Caution should be exercised in patients with cardiovascular or central nervous system disorders.
- Do not use Advair HFA more often than prescribed. Consult with a healthcare provider before using Advair HFA or changing any medication.
- Do not use Advair HFA to treat sudden breathing problems from asthma or COPD. Always carry a rescue inhaler with you to address sudden symptoms.
- Do not use Advair if you have a severe allergy to milk proteins. Do not use Advair if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the products. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure.
- Seek immediate medical attention or consult your healthcare provider if you experience worsening breathing problems, increased frequency of needing a rescue inhaler, or reduced peak flow meter readings. Your healthcare provider will advise you on appropriate levels for these measures.
- The medication may cause Candida albicans infection and pneumonia in patients with COPD.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I miss a dose of Advair HFA?
If you miss a dose of Advair HFA, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regular time. Do not take extra medication to make up for a missed dose.
Can Advair HFA be used for sudden breathing problems?
No, Advair HFA is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for sudden breathing problems. For sudden breathing problems, use a fast-acting inhaler prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Can Advair HFA be used during pregnancy?
There is limited information on the use of Advair HFA during pregnancy. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before using this medication.
Can Advair HFA be used by people with COPD?
Advair HFA is not approved to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There is a different medication called Advair Diskus that is approved for the treatment of COPD.
Resources
- https://honeybeehealth.com/drugs/advair-hfa
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/021077s046,021254s015,020692s038lbl.pdf
- https://www.advair.com/
- https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/symbicort-advair-compare-3547067/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326322
- https://www.rxlist.com/advair-hfa-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-144897/advair-hfa-inhalation/details
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