Fluticasone; Salmeterol inhalation powder
What does fluticasone; salmeterol inhalation powder do?
FLUTICASONE; SALMETEROL inhalation (Advair(TM) Diskus(R)) is for treating respiratory problems due to asthma. Fluticasone; salmeterol is intended for regular use. It will not cure your condition, but can help to reduce asthmatic symptoms. Fluticasone; salmeterol will not relieve an acute asthma attack. Fluticasone; salmeterol can be used along with other inhaled or oral asthma medications.
What should my health care professional know before I use fluticasone; salmeterol?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an asthmatic attack
• infection, especially fungal infection
• an unusual or allergic reaction to fluticasone; salmeterol, other corticosteroids, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Fluticasone; salmeterol is for inhalation through the mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Open and prepare mouthpiece of Diskus(R) device and slide device lever to activate the first dose (see package instructions). Do not advance the lever more than once at any one time as this will release further doses that will be wasted. Hold the Diskus(R) mouthpiece level to, but away from, the mouth, then exhale. Put the mouthpiece to the lips and breathe in the dose deeply and slowly. Remove canister from the mouth, hold breath for at least 10 seconds, and then exhale slowly. Close the Diskus(R), which will also reset the dose lever for the next scheduled dose. Following administration, rinse mouth with water to minimize dry mouth; do not swallow the water. Do not use more than the recommended dose.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose and continue with your regular schedule, spacing doses evenly. Do not use double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with fluticasone; salmeterol?
• arsenic trioxide
• astemizole
• bepridil
• beta-blockers, often used for high blood pressure or heart problems
• certain antibiotics (such as clarithromycin, erythromycin, gatifloxacin, grepafloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, sparfloxacin)
• cisapride
• ketoconazole
• medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
• medicines for high blood pressure
• some medicines for treating depression or mental illness (amoxapine, maprotiline, pimozide, phenothiazines, tricyclic antidepressants)
• medicines to control heart rhythm (examples: amiodarone, digoxin, disopyramide, dofetilide, flecainide, procainamide, quinidine, sotalol)
• probucol
• terfenadine
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from using fluticasone; salmeterol?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• chest pain
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• fever or chills
• skin rash and itching (hives)
• sore mouth, with white curd-like patches in the mouth or throat
• troubled breathing or wheezing
• unusual swelling
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vision problems
• vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• coughing, hoarseness, throat irritation
• diarrhea
• headache
• muscle cramps and pains
• nausea
• nervousness
• sore throat
• stomach upset
• stuffy nose