If you prefer to use a metered-dose inhaler instead of the DISKUS®, you have another option: ADVAIR HFA. Like the DISKUS, ADVAIR HFA treats the two main causes of asthma symptoms—airway constriction and inflammation. Unlike ADVAIR DISKUS, ADVAIR HFA does not include lactose. Learn more about the different types of asthma medicines.
ADVAIR HFA is available in three strengths: ADVAIR HFA 45/21, ADVAIR HFA 115/21, and ADVAIR HFA 230/21. Each inhaler provides 120 metered inhalations. ADVAIR HFA is for patients 12 years and older.
HOW TO USE ADVAIR HFA
Priming your ADVAIR HFA:
How to Prime Your ADVAIR HFA
Prime your inhaler before you use it for the very first time.
To prime your inhaler, remove the cap. Hold the inhaler upright. Shake the inhaler for five seconds. Then, spray it one time in the air away from your face. Shake and spray the inhaler in the same way three more times. Avoid spraying in eyes.
If you have not used your inhaler in over 4 weeks or if you have dropped it, shake it well for 5 seconds and spray it 2 times in the air away from your face.
Each time you use your ADVAIR HFA:
Step 1:
Shake the inhaler well for 5 seconds right before each use.
Take the cap off the inhaler.
Step 2:
Breathe out fully through your mouth.
Then breathe in slowly while inhaling the spray at the same time.
Hold your breath for as long as you can, up to 10 seconds. Then breathe normally.
Wait about 30 seconds and shake the inhaler again. Repeat as directed.
For complete instructions, see Medication Guide for ADVAIR HFA: Instructions for Using Your ADVAIR HFA.
Important Safety Information About ADVAIR DISKUS and ADVAIR HFA 45/21, 115/21, 230/21 (fluticasone propionate and salmeterol) Inhalation Aerosol
Prescription ADVAIR won't replace fast-acting inhalers for sudden symptoms and should not be taken more than twice a day. ADVAIR is for people who still have symptoms on another asthma controller, or who need two controllers. ADVAIR contains salmeterol. In patients with asthma, medicines like salmeterol may increase the chance of asthma-related death. So ADVAIR is not for people whose asthma is well controlled on another controller medicine.
Talk to the doctor about the risks and benefits of treating asthma with ADVAIR. Do not use ADVAIR with long-acting beta2-agonists for any reason. If taking ADVAIR, see the doctor if asthma does not improve or gets worse. Thrush in the mouth and throat may occur. Tell the doctor about any heart condition or high blood pressure. Some people may experience increased blood pressure, heart rate, or changes in heart rhythm. Inhaled corticosteroids as well as poorly controlled asthma may cause a reduction in growth rate. The long-term effect on final adult height is unknown.
ADVAIR DISKUS is for patients 4 years and older. For patients 4 to 11 years old, ADVAIR DISKUS 100/50 is for those who have asthma symptoms while on an inhaled corticosteroid.
ADVAIR HFA is for patients 12 years and older.