Comprehensive Product Description: Advair Rotacaps

Advair Rotacaps combine Fluticasone Propionate (a corticosteroid) and Salmeterol (a long-acting beta-agonist) to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These dry powder inhalation capsules work by reducing inflammation in the airways and relaxing bronchial muscles, improving airflow and preventing asthma symptoms and COPD flare-ups.

Advair Rotacaps

Fluticasone Propionate (Inhaled Corticosteroid – ICS)

Salmeterol Xinafoate (Long-Acting Beta2-Adrenergic Agonist – LABA)

Other Popular and Common Names:
Advair Diskus (US)

Seretide Accuhaler (UK/EU)

Fluticasone/Salmeterol Inhalation Powder

Seroflo Rotacaps (generic version in India)

AirDuo RespiClick (US alternative)

Pharmacological Class: Combination of Inhaled Corticosteroid + Long-Acting Beta Agonist

Therapeutic Class: Respiratory agent

ATC Code: R03AK06

Mechanism of Action (Mode of Action):
Fluticasone Propionate reduces airway inflammation, swelling, and mucus production by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in lung tissues.

Salmeterol binds to beta2-adrenergic receptors on bronchial smooth muscle, causing bronchodilation for up to 12 hours, preventing bronchospasm.

This dual-action helps patients achieve symptom control and reduction in exacerbations in both asthma and COPD.

Asthma maintenance treatment in adults and children over 4 years

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema

Reduces the need for rescue inhalers

Prevents nocturnal symptoms and exercise-induced asthma when used regularly

Usual Dosage (Adults and Adolescents 12+):
1 Rotacap twice daily (every 12 hours)

Common strengths:

Fluticasone 100 mcg + Salmeterol 50 mcg

Fluticasone 250 mcg + Salmeterol 50 mcg

Fluticasone 500 mcg + Salmeterol 50 mcg

Children (4–11 years):

100 mcg/50 mcg strength once or twice daily (doctor’s discretion)

Use with a Rotahaler device

Do not swallow the capsule

Place the capsule in the Rotahaler, twist, and inhale deeply

Rinse mouth after use to avoid oral thrush

Prescription required in most countries

Do not exceed prescribed dose

Store in cool, dry place below 25°C

Keep capsules in blister packs until ready to use

Hoarseness or voice changes

Oral candidiasis (fungal infection)

Headache

Throat irritation

Cough

Tremors or nervousness

Serious Side Effects (Rare):
Tachycardia or palpitations

Adrenal suppression

Paradoxical bronchospasm

Increased risk of pneumonia in COPD

Hypokalemia or hyperglycemia with prolonged use

Not a rescue inhaler: Do not use during acute asthma attacks

Rinse mouth after each use to avoid oral fungal infections

Use with caution in patients with heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, tuberculosis

Avoid abrupt discontinuation—taper slowly

Long-term use may require monitoring of adrenal function, bone density, and ocular pressure

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir): May increase fluticasone levels and systemic corticosteroid effects

Beta-blockers: May reduce efficacy of salmeterol

Diuretics (loop/thiazide): Risk of hypokalemia

MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants: Can increase salmeterol side effects

Live vaccines: Use with caution due to immunosuppression risk

Pregnancy & Lactation:
Pregnancy Category C

Use only if benefit justifies risk

Small amounts may pass into breast milk

Use caution while breastfeeding

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is Advair Rotacaps used for?
Advair Rotacaps are used for long-term control of asthma and COPD, reducing airway inflammation and preventing bronchospasm.

Q2. Can I use Advair Rotacaps for sudden asthma attacks?
No. It is not a rescue medication. Use a short-acting beta agonist (e.g., salbutamol) for immediate relief.

Q3. Is it safe to use Advair Rotacaps long-term?
Yes, when used under medical supervision. Periodic monitoring is recommended for bone health, adrenal function, and lung function.

Q4. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as remembered. Skip if close to the next dose. Do not double dose.

Q5. How fast does it start working?
Symptom improvement may begin within a few days, but full effects are seen in 1 to 2 weeks with regular use.

Q6. Can it be used in children?
Yes, for children 4 years and older, but only under pediatric supervision.