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Advair Diskus (fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder)

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By Editorial Team

2 min read

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: May 2023

Advair Diskus® is a type of drug used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. For people with COPD, Advair Diskus may help prevent and treat symptoms such as:1,2

What are the ingredients in Advair Diskus?

The active ingredients in Advair Diskus are fluticasone propionate and salmeterol xinafoate.1

How does Advair Diskus work?

Advair Diskus is a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA).1,2

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ICS drugs reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways. LABAs relax the muscles surrounding the airways. The combination of an ICS and a LABA makes it easier to breathe and reduces COPD symptoms.2

What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects of Advair Diskus include:1

  • Headache
  • Viral respiratory infections
  • Muscle and bone pain
  • Throat irritation
  • Voice changes
  • Fungal infection (thrush) in your mouth or throat

You can prevent thrush by rinsing your mouth out with water after you take Advair Diskus.1

These are not all the possible side effects of Advair Diskus. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Advair Diskus. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Advair Diskus.

Other things to know

Advair Diskus may not be right for everyone. Talk to your doctor about what treatment options are best for you. They will tell you the possible side effects, risks, and benefits.

Advair Diskus is a long-term treatment. It is not meant to be used for sudden COPD symptoms. Your doctor will prescribe a short-acting inhaler if your symptoms worsen suddenly.1,2

Using Advair Diskus long-term can increase your risk of developing eye problems like glaucoma or cataracts. You may need to have regular eye exams while you take this drug.1,2

You should not use Advair Diskus if you have a severe allergy to milk protein.1

Advair Diskus is often used by people who are pregnant. But there is not enough research on the risks of taking it during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.1,2

Before beginning treatment for COPD, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs.

For more information, read the full prescribing information of Advair Diskus.