Advair HFA (Fluticasone/Salmeterol) from Maple Leaf Medications.

What is Advair HFA?

Advair HFA, with the generic name fluticasone propionate and salmeterol, is an oral inhalation indicated to treat asthma among patients 12 years of age and older. It prevents and controls symptoms, including wheezing and shortness of breath. Note that this medication is not indicated for the relief of acute breathing symptoms.

This inhalation contains a synthetic trifluorinated corticosteroid that has an anti-inflammatory effect through its vast range of action on multiple cell types and mediators. It also contains a selective long-acting beta-agonist that relaxes bronchial smooth muscle and inhibits the release of immediate hypersensitivity mediators from mast cells. This is available in Advair HFA 250/50 mcg (equivalent to Advair HFA 230/21 mcg), Advair HFA 125/25 mcg (equivalent to Advair HFA 115/21 mcg), and Advair HFA 50/25 mcg (equivalent to Advair HFA 45/21 mcg) inhalation aerosols.

How to use Advair HFA

To initiate, read the medication information leaflet that comes with this product. Do not attempt to use this inhaler without fully understanding the drug information and instructions in the guide provided. If you have questions on this treatment or need further medical advice, you may ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Remember to use this medication regularly and with a dosing schedule to achieve the best results. If you are prescribed other inhalers at the same time, note that there should be at least one-minute interval between each medication.

Use this inhalation aerosol exactly as directed. Advair HFA doses depend on patients’ medical condition, response to treatment, other medications being taken, and age. Do not alter your dosing or stop taking this drug abruptly.

Step by step guide in using Advair HFA:

1. Ensure that the canister is placed firmly into the actuator. You should see the counter through the window in the plastic actuator.
2. Shake the inhaler for 5 seconds. Take the cap off and check the mouthpiece for any foreign objects.
3. Hold the inhaler vertically, with the mouthpiece down. Breathe out deeply and fully through your mouth. Then, release the canister.
4. Put the mouthpiece in your mouth with your lips sealed around it. Push the top part of the canister all the way down as you inhale fully and deeply through your mouth.
5. Hold your breath for not less than ten seconds and remove the inhaler from your mouth. If you are to take another dose, wait for 30 seconds and repeat steps 2-5.
6. Rinse your mouth with tap water.
7. Put the cap back into the inhaler and store the aerosol accordingly.

Advair HFA Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth or throat
• Hoarseness
• Throat irritation
• Stomach upset
• Diarrhea

In most cases, the side effects caused by this inhaler are mild and will resolve on their own. However, if the adverse reactions persist or get worst, it could be necessary to discontinue the use of this inhalation and consult your doctor or any healthcare provider. You should also observe for severe side effects, including:

• Hypertension or high blood pressure
• Sudden worsening of breathing problems
• White patches on the tongue and mouth
• Insomnia or trouble sleeping
• Vision changes
• Increased thirst
• Muscle cramps
• Tremors
• Severe dizziness
• Fainting
• Seizures
• Signs of an infection (fever, chills, persistent sore throat)

This is not a full or complete list of Advair HFA’s side effects.

Precautions when using Advair HFA

Before using this medication, ensure that you have disclosed your medical history to your doctor, especially any history of osteoporosis, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, heart problems, eye problems, liver disease, seizures, and infections. Certain diseases or disorders may greatly impact how your body will respond to this drug. In addition, talk about all the prescription drugs and nonprescription drugs you are taking, for they might interact with this inhalation aerosol.

Be watchful for an allergic reaction while on this treatment. Do not use this inhaler if you have a known allergy to its active ingredients – fluticasone, salmeterol, lactose, or any inactive ingredients it may contain. Discontinue the use of this inhaler immediately and alert your medical emergency line once you observe signs of hypersensitivity, such as red patches on the skin, hives, severe dizziness, swelling of the face, and trouble breathing.

This drug could cause QT prolongation. Seek emergency help once you experience fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, and severe dizziness. To avoid this condition, do not take water pills or diuretics and stay hydrated. Also, note that hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia could further trigger QT prolongation.

Your immune system could also be suppressed while on this medication. An increased risk of infection may result from this. The inhaler could also mask signs of infection. Wash your hands and practice good hygiene at all times and avoid exposure to people who have an infection.

It is still unknown whether this inhaler could cause harm to unborn and nursing babies. Moms who are pregnant or breastfeeding must consult their doctor before initiating this inhalation aerosol.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this medication for acute bronchospasm?

No, this drug is not a rescue inhaler and is not indicated to treat acute conditions.

Is Advair HFA prescribed for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

This treatment is not an approved drug for the treatment of COPD.

How do Advair HFA and Advair Diskus differ?

On Advair HFA vs Diskus, the latter could be used to manage both asthma and COPD.

How often should I clean my Advair HFA inhaler?

You must clean your metered-dose inhaler at least once a week using clean, dampened tissue. Do not remove the canister when cleaning your inhaler.

Can I purchase this medication online?

You can purchase this inhalation aerosol from this website if you have a valid prescription.