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Fluticasone and salmeterol

Brand names: Advair Diskus, Advair HFA, Wixela Inhub

Fluticasone-salmeterol (Advair) is a daily controller inhaler for asthma and COPD. It lowers airway swelling and keeps airways open.

Brand namesAdvair Diskus, Advair HFA, Wixela Inhub
Type of medicineController inhaler (steroid plus long-acting bronchodilator)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It combines a steroid (fluticasone) and a long-acting bronchodilator (salmeterol).

It doesn't work fast enough for a sudden attack. Keep a rescue inhaler too.

What it's used for

  • Asthma that isn't controlled with a steroid inhaler alone
  • COPD

How to take it

  • Use it twice a day, about 12 hours apart, every day, even when you feel well.
  • Rinse your mouth with water and spit after each use to prevent thrush.
  • Don't use it more than twice a day.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Hoarse voice
  • Sore throat
  • Thrush (white patches in the mouth)
  • Headache
Call 911Breathing gets worse right after using it
Call 911Chest pain or a fast, irregular heartbeat
Call your provider todayNeeding your rescue inhaler more often
Call your provider todayFever, cough with mucus, or chest pain (possible pneumonia, more common in COPD)

Warnings

  • Long-term steroid use can affect bones, eyes, and growth in children.
  • Don't stop suddenly without asking.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Ritonavir, ketoconazole, and some other medicines raise steroid levels.
  • Beta blockers can block salmeterol's effect.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Controlling asthma is important in pregnancy. Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.