- The Advair Diskus comes in three different strengths 100/50, 250/50 and 500/50. The steroid component is what changes as the salmeterol is constant at 50.
- Mild side effects of Advair are nausea, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, dry mouth, hoarseness, sinus pressure, coughing up mucus and a sore throat.
- Serious side effects, which should be reported to a doctor include rapid, uneven heartbeat, chest pain, fever, blurred vision, thrush and asthma symptoms. Salmeterol has been linked to a rare, but increased risk of severe asthma attacks and death.
- Effects of long-term use of Advair include eye problems, such as glaucoma and cataracts, osteoporosis, insulin resistance, seizures, thyroid problems and infection.
- As with any medication, seek medical attention if hives and airway swelling appear after using Advair. Patients who are allergic to milk proteins are at a higher risk of a serious allergic reaction to Advair.
- Patients concerned about the effects of salmeterol should discuss other options with their doctors. Do not abruptly discontinue Advair without first consulting a doctor.
