Fluticasone/Salmeterol Flashcards

Study Notes

Brand and Generic Names

Brand name: Advair
Generic name: Fluticasone/Salmeterol

Indications

Long-term maintenance treatment of asthma for patients aged 4 years and older (Advair Diskus) and 12 years and older (Advair HFA)
Maintenance treatment for airflow obstruction in COPD patients associated with chronic bronchitis

Dosing Guidelines

Asthma: One Diskus inhalation or two HFA inhalations twice daily, about 12 hours apart
Airflow obstruction: One inhalation of Advair 250/50 twice daily, morning and evening
For patients not currently on corticosteroids, starting dose recommended is Advair Diskus 100/50 twice daily

Strengths and Dosage Forms

Advair Diskus available strengths: 100/50, 250/50, 500/50 (all values in mcg)
Advair HFA available strengths: 45/21, 115/21, 230/21 (all values in mcg)

Medication Class

Classified as an antiasthmatic

Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action

Fluticasone: Acts on receptor proteins in sensitive cells; forms steroid-receptor complex leading to m-RNA transcription; produces proteins and enzymes for anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory effects
Salmeterol: Stimulates adenyl cyclase leading to increased c-AMP; causes relaxation of bronchial, uterine, and vascular smooth muscle; inhibits release of mediators from mast cells

Drug Interactions

Systemic corticosteroids may produce additive effects
Risk of increased toxicity with sympathomimetics, tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors
β-blockers can diminish effectiveness of Salmeterol, with nonselective agents posing a higher risk

Side Effects and Adverse Effects

Common side effects include upper respiratory tract infection, pharyngitis, headache, nausea, vomiting, sinusitis, bronchitis, cough, rash, and angioedema

Contraindications

Not for primary treatment of status asthmaticus; long-acting β-2-adrenergic agonists increase risk of asthma-related death
Caution is needed for transitioning patients from systemic corticosteroids
Not suitable for rapid relief of bronchospasm; may lead to secondary oral fungal infections
Caution advised in patients with cardiovascular disorders, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and during pregnancy (Category C)

Patient Counseling Points

Avoid eye contact; rinse mouth after use
Contact a healthcare provider for severe or persistent side effects
If a dose is missed, skip it and resume normal schedule
Treatment requires regular use for full benefits, which may take up to four weeks to manifest
Ensure understanding and proper use of Diskus and HFA inhaler

Description

This quiz covers key concepts related to Fluticasone and Salmeterol, including brand names, generic formulations, and indications for use. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals looking to enhance their knowledge of respiratory medications. Test your understanding with these flashcards!