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Breathe Easier with a Fluticasone and Salmeterol Inhaler

  • A combination medication inhaler
  • Treats asthma and COPD
  • Sold under brand name Advair
4.9
745,000+ Patients Served
What are fluticasone and salmeterol?

Fluticasone and salmeterol are two medications combined in an inhaler to help manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Fluticasone is a corticosteroid and salmeterol is a long-acting bronchodilator. In combination, the two can help those with asthma or COPD breathe easier.

How does the fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler work?

Fluticasone reduces inflammation in the airways, while salmeterol relaxes airway muscles to improve airflow. Together, they help prevent symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath, making it easier to breathe over time.

How do I know if I qualify for a fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler?

To determine if you qualify for a fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler, you’ll need a healthcare provider's evaluation. They will review your medical history, current health conditions, and symptoms to help determine if fluticasone and salmeterol is appropriate for you. You may qualify if you have been diagnosed with any of the following:

  • Asthma: Difficulty breathing, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness
  • Airflow blockage: Due to certain lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema

Your provider will also consider factors such as any history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or immune system conditions, medication interactions, or other underlying health concerns before determining if fluticasone and salmeterol is a good fit for you.

This inhaler is typically prescribed for adults and children aged four and older for asthma, and for individuals 12 and older with COPD, especially if symptoms persist despite other treatments. However, it is not meant for sudden breathing problems and should not replace a rescue inhaler.

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My approach to healthcare is grounded in listening, education, and empowering patients to take an active role in their wellness.

I believe virtual care expands access and allows me to support patients with the same compassion and clinical excellence as an in-person visit. My goal is always to meet patients where they are and guide them toward safe, personalized, sustainable health outcomes.

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Frequently
Asked
Questions

How do I know if the fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler is right for me?

The fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler may be suitable for managing conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), particularly if other treatments haven’t fully controlled your symptoms. It is often recommended for individuals who experience frequent flare-ups or persistent breathing difficulties despite using other inhalers.

Your provider will also discuss the potential benefits, risks, and side effects to ensure a fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler aligns with your treatment goals. If prescribed, they will monitor your response and adjust the dosage as needed to ensure the medication is both effective and well-tolerated. Always consult your provider and follow their guidance to decide if the fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler is the best option for your needs.

What’s the difference between the fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler and other inhalers?

The fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler is a maintenance inhaler designed for long-term control of asthma and COPD, while other inhalers may serve different purposes.

Rescue inhalers, like albuterol, provide quick relief during sudden breathing difficulties but don’t offer long-term symptom control. Some inhalers contain only a corticosteroid (like fluticasone alone) to reduce inflammation, while others include different types of bronchodilators for varying levels of airway relaxation.

Your healthcare provider can help determine which inhaler best fits your condition and symptoms.

When is the best time to use the fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler?

The best time to use the fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler depends on your healthcare provider’s instructions, but it is typically taken twice a day, about 12 hours apart, to maintain consistent symptom control. Since it is a maintenance inhaler, it should be used regularly at the same times each day, rather than as needed for sudden breathing issues. If you’re unsure about the best schedule for you, talk to your provider for personalized guidance.

How long does it take fluticasone and salmeterol inhalers to work?

The fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler starts working within a few hours, but it may take a week or more to feel noticeable improvements in breathing. Since it’s a maintenance inhaler, its full effects build over time with consistent use. It’s important to keep using it as prescribed, even if you don’t see immediate results. If symptoms don’t improve after a few weeks, talk to your healthcare provider.

Can you use fluticasone and salmeterol inhalers to stop an asthma attack?

A fluticasone and salmeterol inhaler is not designed to stop an asthma attack. This inhaler combines a corticosteroid (fluticasone) to reduce inflammation and a long-acting beta agonist (salmeterol) to help open the airways over time. It is typically used for long-term control and prevention of asthma symptoms, not for immediate relief during an acute asthma attack.

For an asthma attack, a fast-acting inhaler, usually containing a short-acting beta agonist like albuterol, is recommended to quickly open the airways and relieve symptoms. Always consult with your healthcare provider about the appropriate medication for managing asthma.

What are the most common side effects of fluticasone and salmeterol inhalers?

The most common side effects of fluticasone and salmeterol inhalers can include:

  • Throat irritation or hoarseness
  • Coughing
  • Headache
  • Upper respiratory tract infections
  • Nausea
  • Muscle pain or cramps
  • Thrush (oral candidiasis)
  • Increased heart rate or palpitations

Be sure to contact your LifeMD-affiliated healthcare provider if your side effects do not resolve or if you experience more severe side effects.

Can LifeMD prescribe fluticasone and salmeterol inhalers?

Yes! With LifeMD, you can connect with a licensed healthcare provider from the comfort of your home within an hour. If appropriate, your provider may prescribe a fluticasone salmeterol inhaler and send it directly to your local pharmacy.

For even more flexibility, a LifeMD+ membership gives you 24/7 access to care, same-day prescription refills, exclusive wellness perks, and easy access to lab testing — all designed to make managing your health simple and stress-free.

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