Description
Generic Name: fluticasone propionate & salmeterol
Drug Class: corticosteroid & long-acting beta-agonist
Indications
Advair HFA is a prescription inhalation prescribed to treat asthma. It can prevent and control breathing symptoms, such as wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath. This is indicated for patients 12 years of age and older.
Advair HFA Dosage
This is available in 50/25 mcg (equivalent to Advair HFA 45/21 mcg), 125/25 mcg (equivalent to Advair HFA 115/21 mcg, and 250/25 mcg (equivalent to Advair HFA 230/21 mcg)
Advair Mechanism of Action
This oral inhalation has two active ingredients.
Fluticasone Propionate, is a synthetic corticosteroid that acts on multiple cell types and mediators that are responsible for inflammation.
Salmeterol Xinafoate works by stimulating the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of adenosine triphosphate to adenosine monophosphate. The elevated level of cyclic AMP can lead to smooth bronchial muscle relaxation and can also inhibit the release of the mediators associated with immediate hypersensitivity.
How to Use Advair HFA
Before you take this prescription product, you must read the patient information leaflet or brochure that comes with it. Do not use this oral inhaler unless you thoroughly understand all the information and instructions. Ask your doctor or the pharmacist for further information.
This is usually prescribed twice a day, twelve hours apart. Make a dosing schedule so you will not miss your doses. Do not increase/decrease your Advair HFA doses or use this inhaler more frequently than prescribed.
Step-by-step Guide on using Advair HFA:
- Check if the canister is placed firmly into the device or the actuator. The counter must be visible through the window in the actuator.
- Shake the device for about 5 seconds. Remove the cap, then check the mouthpiece for any foreign objects.
- Hold the actuator vertically, with the mouthpiece down. Exhale fully but deeply through the mouth. Release the canister after.
- Put the device inside the mouth with your lips sealed around the mouthpiece. Press the top part of the canister fully while you inhale deeply through the mouth.
- Hold your breath for about 10 secs and remove the inhaler from the mouth. If you need to take another dose, wait for 30 seconds before you repeat steps 2-5.
- Rinse your mouth with water. Do not drink it.
- Put the cap back on into the actuator and store it properly.
Advair HFA Side Effects:
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Headache
-Dizziness
-Dry mouth
-Nausea
-Throat irritation
-Hoarseness
-Diarrhea
-Stomach upset
Severe Side Effects:
-High blood pressure
-Sudden worsening of breathing problems
-White patches inside the mouth
-Fever
-Persistent sore throat
-Trouble sleeping
-Mental or mood changes
-Muscle cramps
-Increased thirst or urination
-Shaking
Note: This is not a complete or full list of adverse reactions. If any side effects persist or worsen, you must call your doctor or any healthcare professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not use this oral inhalation spray if you have an allergy to fluticasone, salmeterol, or any inactive ingredients it contains. Signs of serious allergic reactions are severe dizziness, skin rashes, swelling of the face and neck, hives, swollen lymph nodes, and trouble breathing. This must be considered a medical emergency. Immediately call for emergency help if this happens.
This prescription drug may be contraindicated for people with a history of osteoporosis, heart disease, high blood pressure, tuberculosis, herpes, diabetes, liver disease, seizures, eye problems, and hyperthyroidism. Due to possible drug interactions, it is also important to talk about all the prescription drugs, OTC drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
This inhaler can cause QT prolongation, which could be considered a medical emergency. Symptoms are severe dizziness and fainting. You may prevent this by staying hydrated and avoiding water pills. You should also be monitored for low potassium and magnesium levels in the blood, as they may also lead to QT prolongation.
The use of steroids can cause a weakened defense system. This drug can possibly mask signs of infection or make you more likely to get an infection. Do not come in contact with people who have or have recently acquired infections, such as flu, chickenpox, or measles.
If you are pregnant/breastfeeding, you should talk to your doctor about the possible risks of this product and the possible effects on unborn babies and breastfed infants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Advair HFA inhaler a steroid?
This oral inhaler contains fluticasone and salmeterol. This is a combination of a steroid and bronchodilator used to control and prevent asthma.
What is the difference between Advair Diskus and Advair HFA?
Advair HFA vs Diskus – The HFA variant is used to treat asthma, but the Diskus variant can be used for both chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
Can Advair HFA be used as a rescue inhaler?
This inhalation aerosol is only indicated to control and prevent asthma. It must not be used to relieve sudden breathing symptoms as it cannot replace a rescue inhaler.
Is Advair HFA the same as Symbicort?
These medications are both brand-name combination inhalers. While Advair contains corticosteroid fluticasone, Symbicort has corticosteroid budesonide.
Can Advair HFA suppress the immune system?
The fluticasone component of Advair HFA can weaken the immune system. Always practice good personal hygiene, for this drug can make it easier for you to get an infection.
Can you buy Advair online?
Yes, you may purchase Advair HFA from our online pharmacy. Note that we require a copy of a valid prescription when purchasing prescription drugs.
What is the price of Advair HFA?
You may see the list of prices on this page by clicking here. Get the best deals when you order your prescription drugs from Pharma Passport.