FAQs About COPD

We’d like to share the answers to some frequently asked questions about COPD. You can also find answers to frequently asked questions about ADVAIR.

ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50 is approved for adults with COPD, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both. ADVAIR DISKUS is not for, and should not be used to treat, sudden, severe symptoms of COPD. ADVAIR won't replace a rescue inhaler. You should only take 1 inhalation of ADVAIR twice a day. Higher doses will not provide additional benefits.

Ask your doctor if ADVAIR DISKUS is right for you.

• What is COPD?
• What is chronic bronchitis?
• What is emphysema?
• What is a COPD exacerbation?
• How does COPD make it hard to breathe?
• What can be done for COPD, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both?
• Is smoking the main cause of COPD?
• How can people with COPD manage their condition?
• Does exercise help people with COPD?
• Are there any breathing techniques that can help me?
• Are there diet tips for people with COPD?
• What if I am having difficulty paying for my ADVAIR DISKUS?

What is COPD?

COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary (lung) disease. It's a term for a condition in which the airflow into and out of the lungs is reduced. COPD includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both. Patients may experience symptoms of one of these conditions, which can make it difficult to breathe.

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What is chronic bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis is increased coughing and mucus production caused by inflammation of the airways. Bronchitis is considered chronic (or long-term) if a person coughs and produces excess mucus most days during three months in a year, for two years in a row.

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What is emphysema?

Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) associated with damage of the air sacs and/or the smallest breathing tubes in the lungs.

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What is a COPD exacerbation?

An exacerbation is when your COPD symptoms (including cough, increased mucus production, and shortness of breath) are worse than usual. This can last for a few days or longer and often requires treatment with antibiotics, oral steroids, and, in some cases, hospitalization.

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How does COPD make it hard to breathe?

The airways in your lungs lose their elasticity (ability to stretch). The walls between air sacs are destroyed. The walls of the airways themselves become thick and swollen, and the airways narrow. Cells in the walls of the airways make more mucus than usual, which blocks the airways. Any of these factors can combine to make it harder to get the air out when exhaling.

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What can be done for COPD, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both?

If you still smoke, the first thing to do is stop. There are also medicines available that can help improve lung function for better breathing in people with COPD, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both. Talk with your doctor to see if you are doing all you can for your condition.

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Is smoking the main cause of COPD?

Smoking causes at least 75% of COPD cases. Cigarette smoke can cause inflammation and damage to the lungs. It is believed that this inflammation can then lead to COPD. Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce the risk of getting COPD.

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How can people with COPD manage their condition?

Your healthcare provider can help you manage your COPD. Your doctor’s advice and treatment may include quitting smoking, eating right, exercise, vaccines, medicines, and supplemental oxygen.

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Does exercise help people with COPD?

Believe it or not, even a mild to moderate workout routine can improve your health. In fact, physical activity can have many benefits. It improves muscle tone, increases energy level, strengthens the heart, and gives you a more positive outlook. It also helps you to do more with less effort. Your doctor will tell you how much exercise you should do and how much is too much.

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Are there any breathing techniques that can help me?

Talk to your healthcare provider about pursed-lip breathing. Patients with COPD can use a pursed-lip breathing technique to help with shortness of breath. Pursed-lip breathing is a simple way to slow your breathing and make it more effective. This is particularly effective when you are trying to catch your breath after exertion or work.

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Are there diet tips for people with COPD?

It is important for you to eat a healthy diet that provides you with the extra energy you need to breathe. Good nutrition can increase your overall well-being. And since too much sodium can cause you to retain too much fluid, try not to eat too much salt. It’s best to eat fresh, healthy foods, such as leafy greens, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins.

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What if I am having difficulty paying for my ADVAIR DISKUS?

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

Bridges to Access is a GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) program for low-income patients who do not have any prescription coverage and are not covered under Medicare Part D. 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.

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