Advair is a prescription medication commonly used to manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Typically, it's administered twice a day via inhalation. In this article, we will detail the recommended dosages, the different forms of Advair, and important usage guidelines.

Advair is a combination inhaler containing two active ingredients: fluticasone propionate and salmeterol. These components work together to reduce inflammation and open airways, making it easier to breathe.

Available Forms

Advair comes in two primary forms:

• Advair Diskus: A dry powder inhaler suitable for oral inhalation.
• Advair HFA: An inhalation aerosol for oral inhalation.

Strength Options

The strengths of Advair differ between the two forms:

• Advair Diskus:
  • 100 mcg fluticasone propionate/50 mcg salmeterol (100/50)
  • 250 mcg fluticasone propionate/50 mcg salmeterol (250/50)
  • 500 mcg fluticasone propionate/50 mcg salmeterol (500/50)
• Advair HFA:
  • 45 mcg fluticasone propionate/21 mcg salmeterol (45/21)
  • 115 mcg fluticasone propionate/21 mcg salmeterol (115/21)
  • 230 mcg fluticasone propionate/21 mcg salmeterol (230/21)

The specific dosage of Advair will depend on the severity of the condition being treated. It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's guidance. The general indications for dosages are as follows:

Asthma

For adults using Advair Diskus, the recommended dosage is:

• One inhalation of either 100, 250, or 500 mcg fluticasone propionate/50 mcg salmeterol, taken twice daily.

For Advair HFA, the usual dosage is:

• Two puffs of either 45, 115, or 230 mcg fluticasone propionate/21 mcg salmeterol, administered twice daily.

COPD

Advair Diskus is employed for COPD management. The standard dose is:

• One inhalation of 250 mcg fluticasone propionate/50 mcg salmeterol taken twice daily.

Advair is usually prescribed for long-term management of asthma and COPD. The dosages for children vary based on their age:

Advair Diskus for Children

• Children aged 4 to 11 years: One puff of 100 mcg/50 mcg twice daily.
• Children aged 12 years and older: One puff in a strength of either 100 mcg/50 mcg, 250 mcg/50 mcg, or 500 mcg/50 mcg, taken twice daily.

Advair HFA for Children

• Children aged 12 years and older: Two puffs in a strength of 45 mcg/21 mcg, 115 mcg/21 mcg, or 230 mcg/21 mcg, taken twice daily.

Your healthcare provider may modify your dosage depending on:

• The severity of your condition.
• Your response to treatment.
• Other medications you might be taking.
• Your overall health, including liver function.

What to Do if You Miss a Dose

If you forget a dose of Advair, skip it and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses to compensate for a missed one, as that may lead to serious side effects.

Overdose Symptoms

Overusing Advair can lead to symptoms such as:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Increased heart rate
• Dry mouth
• High blood pressure
• Fatigue and insomnia
• Nausea
• Seizures in severe cases

If an overdose occurs, seek medical attention immediately.

It’s important to have clear communication with your healthcare provider regarding your dosage. Consider asking:

• Will my dosage change if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
• Do I need a dosage adjustment if I’m using my rescue inhaler more often?
• Could my existing medications affect my Advair dosage?

Always follow your doctor's recommendations regarding medication adjustments.

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your individual health needs.