Over the thumb grip, you should see a small window with a numbered dial underneath. The number tells you how many doses are left. When you’re almost out, “0-5” will appear in red. [2] X Research source
There are many small blister packs full of medicine inside the inhaler. Pushing the lever breaks one of the blister packs, releasing the medicine.
Keep the inhaler flat and level as you breathe. This ensures the medicine is dispensed properly.
After 10 seconds (or as long as you’re able to hold your breath), breathe out slowly, smoothly and evenly. You can start breathing normally.
This is mainly to prevent a fungal infection of the throat called Thrush. [4] X Research source Advair can cause an imbalance of the organisms in your mouth which allows this fungus to take hold. [5] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Store Advair in a cool, dry place where it isn’t within the reach of children. An Advair inhaler can be used for one month after it is first removed from the foil. [6] X Research source
The rest of the instructions in this section are borrowed from online Advair resources. They are intended as general guidelines. Again, only your doctor can tell you what’s right for you.
For long term prevention of asthma symptoms, schedule your two doses 12 hours apart. For instance, you might try taking your first dose at 8:00 in the morning when you wake up and the second at 8:00 in the evening. Setting an alarm on your phone or watch can be a big help here.
Do not double an Advair dose even if you feel your symptoms worsen. The medicine takes time to work. Your doctor will be able to recommend alternative treatments for sudden, severe symptoms.
Instead, carry a doctor-prescribed “rescue inhaler” for this. There are many types of rescue inhalers available. Some use a type of drug called beta-agonists, but alternatives are available, so talk to your doctor if you don’t already have one. [8] X Research source
A few common examples of LABA drugs (and brand names to go with each) include: Salmeterol (Serevent), Formoterol (Foradil, Perforomist), and Arformoterol (Brovana). [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Do not take Advair if you: Are allergic to the active ingredients (salmeterol and fluticasone) Have a severe allergy to milk proteins Are already taking LABA’s (see above) Are having a sudden “attack” of symptoms (see above) Talk to your doctor first if you: Are pregnant or breastfeeding Have known allergies to other medicines Have heart disease or high blood pressure Have a seizure disorder like epilepsy Have a weakened immune system Have diabetes, glaucoma, tuberculosis, osteoporosis, a thyroid disorder, or liver disease.
