Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about ADVAIR for asthma:

#

#

What are the benefits of using ADVAIR for asthma?
Unlike most controllers, ADVAIR helps prevent asthma symptoms from occurring in the first place by treating the two main causes—airway constriction and inflammation.*

Together, airway constriction and inflammation cause the airways to narrow and reduce airflow into the lungs, which may result in symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. ADVAIR helps to prevent such symptoms in the first place. ADVAIR won't replace fast-acting inhalers for sudden symptoms.

*ADVAIR DISKUS is a maintenance therapy that contains two medicines that treat the two main causes of asthma symptoms; most other products treat only one.

#

How does ADVAIR work?
ADVAIR successfully treats the two main causes of asthma by combining two different types of medicines:

  • A long-acting bronchodilator. This medicine helps relax the muscles surrounding the airways
  • An inhaled corticosteroid . This medicine reduces the inflammation in the airways

#

How is ADVAIR different from other asthma medicines?
ADVAIR is different from most other controller medicines because it treats both main causes of asthma symptoms—airway constriction and inflammation.* It helps patients breathe better† every day and is proven to help prevent symptoms from occurring in the first place.

*ADVAIR DISKUS is a maintenance therapy that contains two medicines that treat the two main causes of asthma symptoms; most other products treat only one.
†People ages 12 years and older taking ADVAIR 100/50 experienced improvements in lung function and reductions in both asthma symptoms and fast-acting inhaler use, compared with people taking either fluticasone propionate 100 mcg or salmeterol 50 mcg (inhalation powders) alone. Your results may vary.

#

My symptoms seem to have gone away since I started using ADVAIR. Can I stop taking it?
ADVAIR treats both main causes of asthma symptoms—airway constriction and inflammation—to help prevent symptoms in the first place. To prevent symptoms, you need to treat airway constriction and inflammation, the two main causes of asthma symptoms. Airway constriction and inflammation are always there whether you have symptoms or not. That's why you need to take ADVAIR every day as prescribed—even when you feel fine. If you stop taking ADVAIR, your asthma symptoms could return.

#

How do I take ADVAIR?
ADVAIR is a product that you inhale to help prevent your asthma symptoms from occurring in the first place. Use it once in the morning and once at night, about 12 hours apart, every day, as prescribed by your doctor.

#

Do I have to carry ADVAIR with me all day long?
You only need to take one inhalation of ADVAIR twice a day, every day, once in the morning and once at night, about 12 hours apart. So there's no need to carry it with you. However, you should keep your rescue inhaler with you at all times for sudden asthma symptoms.

#

Does ADVAIR replace my rescue inhaler?
ADVAIR does not replace your rescue inhaler. Always carry your rescue inhaler with you for sudden symptoms.

#

How is ADVAIR available?
ADVAIR DISKUS is available by prescription. It comes in three strengths:

  • ADVAIR 100/50
  • ADVAIR 250/50
  • ADVAIR 500/50

If you prefer a metered-dose inhaler, you have another option: ADVAIR HFA, which is available in three strengths:

  • ADVAIR HFA 45/21
  • ADVAIR HFA 115/21
  • ADVAIR HFA 230/21

Ask your doctor which form and dosage strength of ADVAIR may be right for you.

#

How do I store ADVAIR?

  • Store ADVAIR DISKUS at controlled room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), in a dry place away from direct heat or sunlight
  • Safely discard ADVAIR DISKUS 1 month after you remove it from the foil pouch, or after the dose indicator reads "0," whichever comes first

#

How do I store ADVAIR HFA?

  • Store ADVAIR HFA at room temperature with the mouthpiece down
  • Do not puncture the canister. Do not use or store ADVAIR HFA
    near heat or an open flame. Never throw it into a fire or
    an incinerator
  • Keep ADVAIR HFA and all medicines out of reach of children

#

Does ADVAIR contain lactose?

  • ADVAIR DISKUS contains lactose.
  • ADVAIR HFA does not contain lactose.

#

Can I use a spacer with ADVAIR HFA?
Use only the inhaler device provided with ADVAIR HFA. This device is not to be used with a spacer.

#

What if I am having difficulty paying for my ADVAIR DISKUS?
For patients with managed care coverage, ADVAIR DISKUS is covered on 98% of insurance plans.

There are three assistance programs for patients who are having difficulty paying for their prescription for ADVAIR. Each one is designed with a different patient in mind.

Bridges to Access is a GSK program for low-income patients who do not have any prescription coverage and are not covered under Medicare Part D. It is for non-cancer GSK medicines. There are also other eligibility requirements. If a patient qualifies, he/she may receive GSK medicine at little or no cost. You will need a healthcare worker who helps you with your care to enroll you. Find out more at www.bridgestoaccess.com or call
1-866-728-4368.

GSK Access is a GSK program for people enrolled in a Medicare Part D drug plan. It is for lower income patients who meet the eligibility requirements. The plan provides GSK medicines at no cost after the patient has already spent $600 or more for prescriptions in the year. Find out more at www.gsk-access.com or by calling 1-866-518-4357.

Together Rx Access™ is a discount program sponsored by GSK and other drug companies. It is for lower-income patients who do not have any prescription coverage. If a patient qualifies for the program, he/she may receive 25% to 40% savings on brand-name prescription products. Find out if you are eligible by visiting www.togetherrxaccess.com or calling
1-800-444-4106.

#

 

 

See how to use the ADVAIR DISKUS.

 

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.

Complete Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for ADVAIR DISKUS® (fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder).

Complete Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for ADVAIR® HFA (fluticasone propionate and salmeterol) Inhalation Aerosol.