Product Details: Advair Diskus (Fluticasone/Salmeterol)

PLEASE NOTE BRAND ADVAIR DISKUS IS ALSO MARKETED INTERNATIONALLY UNDER THE NAME SERETIDE ACCUHALER.

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: GlaxoSmithKline

Generic Options - Manufacturer: Generic

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

Each brand Diskus has 60 doses. Each generic inhaler has 30 doses.

Advair is a combination of two medicines (fluticasone and sammeterol) that are used to help control the symptoms of asthma and improve lung function. However, this medicine will not relieve an asthma attack that has already started.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include hoarseness (dysphonia), throat irritation, headache, cough, or dry mouth or throat. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience white patches on tongue or mouth, or if your mouth/tongue becomes swollen and painful. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience any of the following unlikely but serious side effects: weight gain, vision changes, trouble sleeping, tremors, seizures, severe muscle weakness or cramping, fast/irregular heartbeat, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, chest pain, or worsening of asthma symptoms (such as increased difficulty breathing, wheezing, or coughing). AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. Rarely, your wheezing might actually increase immediately after using this medicine (paradoxical bronchospasm). If this occurs, use your "quick-relief" inhaler (such as albuterol). Seek immediate medical attention if your breathing does not improve at that time. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.