How should I use this medication?
Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in
larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on
your prescription label.
This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use, and directions
for priming the inhaler device. Follow these directions carefully.
Do not use fluticasone and salmeterol inhalation to treat an asthma
attack that has already begun. It will not work fast enough. Use only a fast-acting inhalation
medication.
Advair Diskus is a powder form of fluticasone and salmeterol that
comes with a special inhaler device pre-loaded with blister packs containing measured doses of
the medicine. The device opens and loads a blister each time you use the inhaler. This device is
not to be used with a spacer.
Advair HFA is an aerosol form of fluticasone and salmeterol that comes
in a canister that is used with an actuator inhaler device. Use only the inhaler device provided
with Advair HFA. This device is not to be used with a spacer.
Shake the Advair HFA inhaler for at least 5 seconds before each spray.
Keep track of the number of sprays you have used and throw away the Advair HFA
canister after 120 sprays, even if it feels like there is still medicine in it.
If you also use a steroid medication, do not stop using the steroid suddenly or you may
have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk with your doctor about using less and less of the
steroid before stopping completely.
Call your doctor right away if any of your asthma medications do not seem to work as
well in treating or preventing asthma attacks. An increased need for medication could be an early
sign of a serious asthma attack. If you use a
peak flow meter, call your doctor if your numbers
are lower than normal.
Asthma is usually treated with a combination of different drugs. To best treat your
condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. Do not change your doses or
medication schedule without advice from your doctor.
Carry an identification card or wear a medical alert ID to let others know that you
may need an oral steroid in an emergency.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the
Advair HFA canister away from high heat, such as open flame or in a car on a hot day. The
canister may explode if it gets too hot.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip
the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use
extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this
medicine. Overdose symptoms may include
angina or
chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeats,
seizures,
tremor, weakness, headache, nausea, and
vomiting.
What should I avoid while using this medication?
Do not use a second form of salmeterol (such as Serevent) or use a similar inhaled
bronchodilator such as formoterol (Foradil) unless your doctor has told you to.
Fluticasone and salmeterol can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections.
Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Call your doctor for preventive
treatment if you are exposed to chicken pox or measles. These conditions can be serious or even
fatal in people who are using steroid medicines.
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