Comprehensive Product Description: Advair Seretide Inhaler

Advair (Seretide) is a combination inhaler used in asthma and COPD management, containing fluticasone (a corticosteroid) and salmeterol (a long-acting beta2-agonist). It works by reducing airway inflammation and relaxing airway muscles for improved breathing. Available at EZ Chemist Online Pharmacy.

Advair Inhaler / Seretide Inhaler (marketed under both names globally)

Fluticasone propionate + Salmeterol xinafoate

Advair Diskus

Advair HFA

Seretide Evohaler

Seretide Accuhaler

Fluticasone/Salmeterol Inhaler

Therapeutic Class: Anti-asthmatic/Anti-COPD combination therapy

Pharmacologic Class: Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) + Long-acting beta2 agonist (LABA)

ATC Code: R03AK06

Regulatory Status: Prescription Only Medicine (Rx)

Fluticasone propionate: Inhaled corticosteroid that reduces airway inflammation

Salmeterol xinafoate: Long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist that relaxes bronchial smooth muscle

Common Dosage Strengths Available:

100 mcg / 50 mcg

250 mcg / 50 mcg

500 mcg / 50 mcg
Each strength represents fluticasone/salmeterol per inhalation.

Fluticasone propionate reduces inflammation by suppressing the release of inflammatory mediators in the lungs, helping to prevent asthma attacks and COPD exacerbations.

Salmeterol xinafoate binds to beta2-adrenergic receptors in the airway smooth muscle, causing prolonged bronchodilation and improving airflow.

Together, this dual-action therapy provides 24-hour symptom control, reduces airway hyper-responsiveness, and improves overall pulmonary function.

Advair/Seretide is used for the treatment of:

Asthma (moderate to severe) in patients requiring combination therapy

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

Maintenance therapy to prevent wheezing, breathlessness, and flare-ups

Reduction of exacerbation risk in chronic airway disease

Note: Not indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm or sudden asthma attacks.

Asthma (Adults and Adolescents ≥12 years):
Starting Dose: 100/50 mcg or 250/50 mcg twice daily

Max Dose: 500/50 mcg twice daily

COPD (Adults ≥18 years):
Typical Dose: 250/50 mcg twice daily (as per GOLD guidelines)

Pediatric Use (4–11 years):
Recommended Dose: 100/50 mcg twice daily

Use device (Diskus or HFA) as directed

Rinse mouth with water after inhalation to prevent oral thrush

Use consistently every 12 hours for optimal control

Do not exceed recommended doses without medical advice

Prescribing Information:
Must be used daily, not as a rescue inhaler

Inhaler should be stored at room temperature below 30°C

Replace device after 30–60 doses, depending on formulation

Monitor lung function regularly to assess efficacy

Safety Information:
Contraindications:
Known hypersensitivity to fluticasone, salmeterol, or any excipients

Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or acute asthma attack

Side Effects:
Common (>1%):
Hoarseness

Oral thrush (candidiasis)

Headache

Throat irritation

Cough

Less Common (<1%):
Tachycardia

Tremors

Muscle cramps

Increased heart rate

Anxiety

Rare but Serious:
Adrenal suppression (with long-term use)

Paradoxical bronchospasm

Allergic reactions (rash, angioedema)

Growth retardation in children

Warnings and Precautions:
Not for acute symptom relief (use a short-acting beta agonist like albuterol)

Monitor adrenal function with prolonged use

Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, seizure disorders, or thyrotoxicosis

Regularly assess pediatric growth if used in children

Gradual tapering recommended when switching from oral steroids

Drug Interactions:
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir): May increase systemic corticosteroid exposure

Beta-blockers: May reduce bronchodilator effects of salmeterol

MAOIs/TCAs: Use cautiously due to cardiovascular risks

Avoid co-administration with other long-acting beta agonists

The GOAL study (New England Journal of Medicine, 2004) demonstrated superior asthma control in patients using fluticasone/salmeterol vs fluticasone alone

In COPD, Advair/Seretide significantly reduced exacerbations and improved FEV1 compared to monotherapy

Proven mortality reduction in COPD patients with exacerbation risk (TORCH trial)

FAQs – Advair / Seretide Inhaler
Q1: What is the main use of Advair/Seretide Inhaler?
A: It is used as a maintenance inhaler for managing asthma and COPD symptoms and preventing exacerbations.

Q2: Can Advair be used for acute asthma attacks?
A: No. For sudden attacks, a short-acting inhaler like salbutamol should be used.

Q3: How long does it take to notice symptom relief?
A: Some patients may experience improved breathing within a few days, but full benefit can take 1–2 weeks.

Q4: Is it safe for children?
A: Yes, but only under medical supervision. Pediatric dosage should not exceed 100/50 mcg twice daily.

Q5: Can I stop taking it once I feel better?
A: No. Discontinuing without medical advice may lead to worsening of symptoms or flare-ups.