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Fluticasone-Salmeterol
Fluticasone-Salmeterol is a combination medication used to manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It combines two active ingredients: fluticasone, a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, and salmeterol, a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) that helps to relax the muscles in the airways, making breathing easier. This medication is typically prescribed for patients whose asthma or COPD is not well controlled by inhaled corticosteroids alone.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Fluticasone-Salmeterol to work?
Fluticasone-Salmeterol begins to reduce symptoms within 1 to 2 days, but it may take up to 2 weeks of regular use to see the full benefit.
Can Fluticasone-Salmeterol be used as a rescue inhaler?
No, Fluticasone-Salmeterol is a maintenance medication and is not intended for quick relief. You should have a rescue inhaler (e.g., albuterol) on hand for sudden asthma attacks or breathing difficulties.
Can Fluticasone-Salmeterol cause weight gain?
Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to weight gain, though this is more common with oral or systemic corticosteroids rather than inhaled versions.
How should I clean my inhaler?
Clean the mouthpiece of your inhaler regularly with a dry cloth or tissue. Do not rinse the metal canister or put it in water.
Can Fluticasone-Salmeterol be used in children?
Yes, Fluticasone-Salmeterol can be used in children over the age of 4 for asthma management, but a healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage.
How long can I use Fluticasone-Salmeterol?
Fluticasone-Salmeterol is intended for long-term use in managing asthma or COPD, but regular check-ins with your doctor are necessary to evaluate the effectiveness and monitor for potential side effects.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does Fluticasone-Salmeterol Work?
- Fluticasone works by reducing inflammation in the airways, preventing swelling and irritation that can lead to asthma symptoms or COPD exacerbations.
- Salmeterol relaxes the smooth muscles around the airways by stimulating beta-2 receptors, leading to bronchodilation and improved airflow. The long-acting nature of salmeterol provides sustained relief from symptoms such as shortness of breath and wheezing.
Common Dosages
- For asthma: Inhale one puff twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate strength based on the severity of your asthma.
- For COPD: The usual dose is one inhalation twice daily. The 250/50 mcg dose is commonly prescribed for COPD patients.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Asthma: Used as a maintenance treatment to prevent asthma attacks.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, to improve breathing and reduce exacerbations.
Who Shouldn't Take Fluticasone-Salmeterol?
- Known hypersensitivity to fluticasone, salmeterol, or any component of the formulation.
- Acute asthma attacks or COPD exacerbations, as it is not intended for rapid relief of bronchospasm (a fast-acting inhaler should be used in emergencies).
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Use Fluticasone-Salmeterol regularly as prescribed, even if you are feeling better. It is not intended for acute asthma attacks; use a rescue inhaler (such as albuterol) for quick relief.
- Rinse your mouth with water after each use to prevent oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth).
- Do not stop using Fluticasone-Salmeterol without consulting your doctor, as this could worsen your asthma or COPD.
- Store your inhaler at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Side Effects of Fluticasone-Salmeterol
Common Side Effects
- Hoarseness or sore throat
- Headache
- Throat irritation
- Oral thrush (fungal infection)
- Upper respiratory infections
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Increased risk of asthma-related death (associated with LABA use without corticosteroids)
- Paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening of asthma or COPD symptoms)
- Adrenal suppression or growth suppression in children
- Osteoporosis or cataracts with long-term use
Risks and Warnings of Fluticasone-Salmeterol
- Asthma-related Death: Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) like salmeterol, when used alone, have been linked to an increased risk of asthma-related death. However, the combination with a corticosteroid (fluticasone) mitigates this risk. Use only as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Oral Thrush: The corticosteroid in Fluticasone-Salmeterol can cause fungal infections in the mouth. To reduce the risk, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after using the inhaler.
- Systemic Corticosteroid Effects: Long-term use of corticosteroids can cause adrenal suppression, bone loss, and eye problems like cataracts or glaucoma.
Interactions with Fluticasone-Salmeterol
Common Drug Interactions
- Beta-blockers: These medications may reduce the effectiveness of salmeterol and worsen breathing problems.
- Other corticosteroids: Combining Fluticasone-Salmeterol with other steroids (oral or inhaled) may increase the risk of side effects such as adrenal suppression.
- Diuretics: The use of diuretics may increase the risk of low potassium levels (hypokalemia), which can be exacerbated by salmeterol.
Alternatives to Fluticasone-Salmeterol
- Advair Diskus or Advair HFA: A similar combination of fluticasone and salmeterol, used for asthma and COPD management.
- Symbicort (Budesonide-Formoterol): Another combination of a corticosteroid and LABA used for asthma and COPD.
- Breo Ellipta (Fluticasone-Vilanterol): A once-daily inhaler that combines a corticosteroid and LABA for asthma and COPD.
- Inhaled corticosteroids alone: For patients who only need anti-inflammatory treatment without LABA, options like Flovent (fluticasone) are available.
