Using The Advair Diskus

When I think of an inhaler, I think of the prototypical inhaler seen in the movies. You all know well the stereotypes that use the inhalers (nerds). I clearly envision an L shaped frame with a tube or canister on top that expels the medication. The Advair diskus (#advairdiskus)  is not you normal everyday inhaler. Its a circular medical device that actually doesn’t seem nerdy at all. Looking at it for the first time, does make using it seem intimidating. However, once you get used to it, you might actually not mind using it in public.

What Is The Advair Diskus?

The Advair inhaler is a medical device used to control and prevent symptoms caused by asthma or ongoing lung disease. The main intent is to control wheezing and shortness of breath during asthma attacks. The Advair diskus helps in controlling the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. There are two active ingredients called fluticasone and salmeterol which are inhaled. This medical device is currently under patent ant there is no Advair generic available.

The first active ingredient called fluticasone is a steroid hormone. The main purpose of this drug is to reduce inflammation and is used to treat diseases caused by an overactive immune system, such as allergies and asthma. The second component is salmeterol which is a long lasting beta agonist. Beta agonists are drugs that relax muscles of the airways when they become overactive. As your airways widen, you are able to breath easier. Each component only treats a few of the symptoms of asthma but together in an inhaler form, long lasting asthma treatment has become much more manageable.

Advair Side Effects

Keep in mind that when using the Advair Diskus, you are inhaling a powder or mist directly into your lungs. Just from the medication, you can experience hoarseness or irritation of the throat, headaches and upset stomach. In addition, you can see a rise in blood pressure, fevers, sore throats, fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain and severe dizziness. There have been cases of seizures, fainting, mental or mood changes, trouble sleeping, blurred vision, tremors, muscle cramps and white patches on your tongue or in your mouth. If you experience an allergic reaction which include symptoms such as rash, itching, facial swelling and a difficulty breathing after using this medication, please call your doctor.

How To Use The Inhaler

Now that we understand what is in the inhaler. The next step is to show you how to use the inhaler. The Advair Diskus looks a lot like a hockey puck except with grips and inhaler section. A medical professional will show you how to perform a dose. All you have to do is remember 6 easy steps: Open, Slide, Exhale, Inhale, Close and Rinse.

3. Exhale: Take a deep breath and exhale in a direction away from the inhaler.