Fluticasone and salmeterol: daily control and device differences
This guide is here to teach you. It is not medical advice, and it does not replace your doctor or pharmacist. Always do what your doctor tells you, and ask a pharmacist before you change how you take any medicine.
Print or save this guideQuick answers
Can it stop an asthma attack?
No. Use your prescribed quick-relief treatment for sudden symptoms; do not take extra fluticasone/salmeterol for rescue.
Do I use it when I feel well?
Continue the prescribed maintenance schedule unless your clinician changes it.
Does the device matter?
Yes. A Diskus powder device and an HFA aerosol need different handling. Ask for a demonstration whenever your device changes.
Source: MedlinePlus.
How do I take it and handle a missed dose?
Follow the prescribed morning/evening schedule. Skip a missed dose and resume the normal schedule; do not double. Ask about grapefruit before making it a regular part of your diet. MedlinePlus
For Diskus, keep the device dry, do not breathe out into it, and do not attach a spacer. Rinse your mouth and spit after use. Do not copy Diskus preparation or cleaning instructions onto an HFA aerosol. Advair Diskus label and instructions
What should I tell the pharmacist?
Advair Diskus contains milk proteins and must not be used with severe milk-protein allergy. Tell the pharmacist about allergies and every inhaler, tablet and supplement. Another LABA inhaler can duplicate treatment; strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ritonavir can raise risks. Advair Diskus label
What side effects need attention?
Report persistent throat irritation, white mouth patches or palpitations. New wheezing right after a dose needs immediate advice and your prescribed rescue treatment; severe breathing difficulty warrants 911. Your clinician may monitor growth in children and eye health with ongoing use. MedlinePlus
Get help with your prescription
Ask a Fairview pharmacist to check technique and your inhaler list. Prescription services are through the pharmacy, not the OTC shop. This is general education.