Fluticasone/salmeterol is a prescription medication combination used to treat symptoms of asthma, such as coughing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. It is also used to treat air flow blockage in patients with certain lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis and emphysema. IT is generally prescribed for patients who are struggling to manage their asthma with their current medication or who have severe asthma and require multiple medications to manage it.

Fluticasone/salmeterol combination is available under the brand names Advair and AirDuo. It comes in the form of a powder and liquid solution to inhale by mouth using a special inhaler.

Fluticasone/salmeterol combination is used to treat symptoms of asthma, such as coughing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. It is also used to treat air flow blockage in patients with certain lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

It is important to note that fluticasone/salmeterol combination will not stop an asthma attack once it has started; in the event of an asthma attack, patients should utilize a short-acting beta agonist inhaler such as albuterol instead.

Fluticasone/salmeterol combination works by combining the effects of fluticasone and salmeterol to relieve air flow blockage in patients with asthma or COPD.

Fluticasone, which is in the class of medications known as corticosteroids, works by preventing certain lung cells and breathing passage cells from releasing substances that can cause inflammation and swelling in the airways.

Salmeterol, which is in a class of medications known as bronchodilators, works by opening up the air passages in the lungs and improving air flow in order to alleviate asthma symptoms.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about how fluticasone/salmeterol combination works, as well as its risks and benefits.

The most common side effects of fluticasone/salmeterol combination include:

• Body aches
  
• Nasal congestion
  
• Runny nose
  
• Wheezing
  
• Headache
  
• Nausea/ vomiting
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Muscle pain/ weakness
  
• Tremors
  
  

Seek medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms while taking fluticasone/salmeterol combination:

• Chest pain/ tightness
  
• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Swelling (usually in the face, hands or feet)
  
• Choking
  
• Difficulty swallowing
  
• Hoarseness
  
• Changes in heartbeat
  
• Confusion
  
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  
• Lightheadedness/ faintness
  
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects. Call your health care provider if symptoms are persistent or severe.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with fluticasone/salmeterol. Fluticasone/salmeterol can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects or life-threatening allergic reactions. Drug interactions can occur with antifungals, antibiotics, antidepressants, antivirals and beta-blockers among others.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding, pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Fluticasone/salmeterol come as a powder and as an inhalation solution which are inhaled by mouth using a special inhaler. The combination is typically taken twice a day (every 12 hours) but the exact dosage will vary depending on the age of the patient and their body weight. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not discontinue or increase your fluticasone/salmeterol dosages without consulting your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication combination, like those listed above, inform your provider right away.

You should store your medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Fluticasone/salmeterol is currently only available via prescription. This means a licensed health care provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not fluticasone/salmeterol is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for fluticasone/salmeterol to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.