subject: How Does Advair Diskus Help Asthma Patients [print this page] How Does Advair Diskus Help Asthma Patients
According to WHO estimates, 300 million people suffer from asthma and 255,000 people died of asthma in 2005. Asthma is not just a public health problem for high income countries, it occurs in all countries regardless of the level of development. Advair Diskus is a widely used prescription treatment for preventing asthma and improving the lung function in patients above four years. The drug is also used for treatment of adults with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD associated with chronic bronchitis. Composition, Dosage and Side Effects of Advair Diskus
This prescription drug is a combination of Salmeterol, a bronchodilator of the beta-2 agonist type and fluticasone propionate, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid. Fluticasone is a steroid that prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, thus, preventing swelling. Salmeterol is a bronchodilator that works by relaxing the muscles in the airways to improve breathing. Advair Diskus is available in three different forms containing the same amount of salmeterol (50mcg) but varying amounts of fluticasone propionate (110mcg, 250 mcg and 500mcag). Physicians may recommend any of these strengths depending on the patient's individual condition and symptoms. The recommended dosage of this drug is as follows:
For patients who are 12 years or older, one inhalation two times in a day is prescribed
In case of children aged 4-11 years, the recommended dosage is one inhalation of 100/50mcg twice daily.
In case of COPD patients, the recommended dosage is one inhalation of 250/50mcg twice daily.
The drug is, however, not prescribed for patients whose asthma can be controlled easily with infrequent administration of short acting inhalers. Advair Diskus should not be used to treat an asthma attack that has already begun and the person is short of breath. Advair Diskus should be used only in the dose prescribed by your doctor and only for the period recommended by him. You should also inform your doctor about all the medicines being taken by you, any allergies that you may have or any other information related to your health. Some common side effects of this medicine when used to treat asthma patients include:
upper respiratory tract infection
throat irritation
hoarseness and voice changes
thrush in the mouth and throat
cough
headache
nausea and vomiting
infections in the ear, nose and throat
Some additional side effects when Advair Diskus is used for COPD include bone and muscle pain. The medicine can have some serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, sudden breathing problems, increased blood pressure, chest pain, reduced adrenal function, changes in blood sugar levels, eye problems and pneumonia. Since Advair Diskus can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections, you should avoid nearing people who are sick or have infections. If you are exposed to chicken pox or measles, contact your doctor for preventive actions.
