Advair Discus

Advair Discus is a prescription drug that requires caution whenever it is to be used and it is not meant for kids below the age of 4 years.

The prescription drug which is termed as ‘Advair Discus’ is meant to provide relief for patients who suffer from asthma or chronic lung diseases such as bronchitis, emphysema or COPD over a period of time.

As Advair Discus provides relief for those who suffer from asthma, it is pertinent to remember that it does not attempt to replace the speedy-acting inhalers that are often used to provide immediate relief.

Specification of Advair Discus

Advair Discus is an oral inhaler comprising two types of medication, Fluticasone and Salmeterol. Fluticasone propionate is basically a steroid that is meant to reduce inflammation in the lungs. Salmeterol is an effective bronchodilator that helps to open up the airways. Together, these two ingredients guarantee better symptom control than either would do individually.

Functioning of Advair Discus

Advair Discus works in two ways. Firstly, Advair Discus decreases the bronchiolar swelling and secondly, it relaxes the muscles of the lungs. Thereby, the airways of the lungs are opened and a patient experiences better relaxation while breathing.

Side effects of Advair Discus

The most common side effect of Advair Discus includes vomiting, diarrhea, infection of the upper respiratory tract, sinusitis, pharyngitis, cough, nausea and headaches. Other probable side effects of the drug include throat irritation and hoarseness (dysphonia).

Precautions to be taken while taking Advair Discus

Advair Discus contains salmetrol, which is known as a long-acting bronchodilator that opens up the airways. However, it is not advisable for all as some people have side effects to this ingredient. Another main problem with the drug is that it does not show results instantly so it is too late by the time a patient becomes aware of its side effects. So, certain precautions need to be taken while taking this drug.

So, it is extremely essential to do the following before administering Advair Discus:

  • Discuss with your doctor about the pros and cons involved in treating the condition of asthma with Advair Discus.
  • For patients who are less than 4 years old, it is strictly advisable not to use Advair Discus.
  • Inform your doctor about any conditions that you suffer from such as a heart condition or high blood pressure so that the doctor can take a final decision on whether Advair Discus is suitable for you.

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3 comments ↓

#1 Kurt S on 12.15.09 at 10:50 pm

How long has Advair discus inhalers been around? When will Generics become available (ala: zyrtec)?
How long has Advair discus inhalers been around? When will Generics become available (ala: zyrtec)?

#2 Erin on 12.16.09 at 3:52 am

I’m not sure how long Advair has been on the market, but generics are available, just not as a combination inhaler. You can get the two medications that make up Advair in pill form.
References :

#3 Jill D on 12.16.09 at 3:54 am

Advair is a unique drug- It has been on the market for some time, but seemingly hasn’t been allowed to become generic at this point. I haven’t heard any rumor of it doing so yet at this time either.

"Pill" forms are not as effective- I am unsure of your source but these medications are meant to be inhaled not swallowed… But Advair is made up of two ingredients. you can get these inhalers individually sometimes for cheaper. Also if cost is the issue- Flovent and Pulmicort have been on the market longer and are much cheaper. These are both corticosteroids simular to one of the components of advair. Talk to your dr to find a cheaper alternative that may be just as effective.
References :
I am an RRT