Advair is a prescription medication that consists of a combination of the two drugs fluticasone and salmeterol, according to MayoClinic.com. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that decreases inflammation in the lungs, while salmeterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles in airway allowing oxygen into the lungs. Fluticasone and salmeterol work together to control the symptoms of asthma and improve breathing. Advair is primarily used to treat asthma attacks and prevent reoccurrences of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema and bronchitis. While serious complications are rare, it is important to know any risks associated with this medication.
Pneumonia
People who use the medication Advair to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have an increased risk of developing pneumonia, an inflammation of the lungs usually caused by bacteria, fungi, infection or a virus. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute states that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a progressive disease that occurs when the airways become blocked with mucus preventing air from flowing in and out of the lungs. The website News Inferno states that people who regularly use corticosteroids such as fluticasone or long-acting beta antagonists such as Advair to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have a 60 to 70 percent chance of developing pneumonia due to chronic lung inflammation and a weakened immune system. Symptoms of pneumonia can include an increased mucus production, a change in mucus color, fever, chills, cough and/or breathing difficulties. Treatment usually consists of antibiotics, anti-fungal or anti-viral medications and in severe cases hospitalization.
Oral Thrush
A common complication associated with Advair usage is oral thrush, according to the product website Advair.com. Oral thrush is a condition that occurs when a fungus called Candida albicans collects inside the mouth causing creamy white lesions to develop on the tongue and/or inner cheeks. The lesions can be quite painful and may bleed when they are scratched or irritated. In some cases, oral thrush may spread to the roof of the mouth, gums, tonsils or the back of the throat. Although anyone can develop oral thrush, it is more common in the elderly, people with low immune systems, babies and people who use inhaled corticosteroids such as the nasal spray version of fluticasone or the inhaler version of Advair, according to the MayoClinic.com. Symptoms of oral thrush include cracking at the corners of the mouth, loss of taste and/or a cotton feeling in the mouth. Treatment may consist of consuming unsweetened yogurt and taking acidophilus capsules or liquid or anti-fungal medications.
Allergic Reaction
Some people may experience an allergic reaction when using the medication Advair, according to the website Drugs.com. People who are hypersensitive to corticosteroids, bronchodilators or beta antagonists are at risk of having an adverse reaction to Advair. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, severe itching, breathing problems, chest tightness and a swollen mouth, face, lips or tongue. A severe allergic reaction may consist of chest pain, choking, wheezing, irregular heartbeat, severe bone pain, muscle weakness and/or numbness. A mild allergic reaction usually subsides after discontinued use, but in severe cases the allergic reaction may require emergency medical care.
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