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ADVAIR DISKUS

fluticasone propionate and salmeterol · Powder

Prescription NDA TE AB RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
ADVAIR DISKUS
Generic name
fluticasone propionate and salmeterol
Dosage form
Powder
Route
Respiratory (Inhalation)
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
A-S Medication Solutions
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
3
NDC product codes
2
Packages
2
Data completeness
76% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Fluticasone Propionate 100 ug/1 1797907 View
Fluticasone Propionate 250 ug/1 1797907 View
Salmeterol Xinafoate 50 ug/1 896184 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Powder
Route of administration
Respiratory (Inhalation)
Presentations
4

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Adrenergic beta2-Agonists [MoA] MoA All 37 members
Corticosteroid Hormone Receptor Agonists [MoA] MoA All 215 members
Corticosteroid [EPC] EPC All 215 members
beta2-Adrenergic Agonist [EPC] EPC All 37 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
021077
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
August 24, 2000
Sponsor
GLAXO GRP LTD
Products on application
3
Submissions recorded
29
Products approved under application 021077.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
021077-001 ADVAIR DISKUS 100/50 POWDER FLUTICASONE PROPIONATE; SALMETEROL XINAFOATE Prescription AB RLD RS
021077-002 ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50 POWDER FLUTICASONE PROPIONATE; SALMETEROL XINAFOATE Prescription AB RLD RS
021077-003 ADVAIR DISKUS 500/50 POWDER FLUTICASONE PROPIONATE; SALMETEROL XINAFOATE Prescription AB RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AB
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 021077.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 61 Labeling Approved January 7, 2019 Standard
Supplement 57 Efficacy Approved December 20, 2017 Standard
Supplement 56 Efficacy Approved December 20, 2017 Standard
Supplement 58 Labeling Approved February 28, 2017 Standard
Supplement 54 Labeling Approved April 29, 2016 Standard
Supplement 53 Labeling Approved November 13, 2014 Standard
Supplement 52 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 17, 2014 Standard
Supplement 51 Labeling Approved April 14, 2014 Standard
Supplement 50 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 19, 2013 Standard
Supplement 49 REMS Approved August 9, 2012 N/A
Supplement 48 Labeling Approved August 9, 2012 Standard
Supplement 47 REMS Approved June 27, 2011 N/A
Supplement 46 REMS Approved May 10, 2011 N/A
Supplement 41 REMS Approved January 4, 2011 N/A
Supplement 42 Labeling Approved June 25, 2010 901 Order
Supplement 36 Efficacy Approved March 31, 2009 Unknown
Supplement 29 Efficacy Approved April 30, 2008 Unknown
Supplement 27 Labeling Approved February 23, 2007 Standard
Supplement 26 Labeling Approved September 27, 2006 Standard
Supplement 28 Labeling Approved March 2, 2006 Standard
Supplement 22 Labeling Approved September 28, 2004 Standard
Supplement 17 Efficacy Approved April 21, 2004 Unknown
Supplement 3 Efficacy Approved November 17, 2003 Standard
Supplement 19 Labeling Approved August 11, 2003 Standard
Supplement 8 Labeling Approved August 21, 2002 Standard
Supplement 9 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 17, 2002 Standard
Supplement 4 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved October 16, 2001 Standard
Supplement 1 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved December 22, 2000 Standard
Original application 1 Type 4 - New Combination Approved August 24, 2000 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · February 13, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · January 8, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · December 27, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · December 27, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · December 21, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · December 21, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · December 20, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · December 20, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · March 8, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · March 3, 2017
  • Package Labeling · Supplement · June 23, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · May 5, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · May 2, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · November 18, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · December 20, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · November 14, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · June 17, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · April 16, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · April 16, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · August 6, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · October 12, 2012
  • 0 · Supplement · August 13, 2012
  • 0 · Supplement · July 5, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · May 12, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · January 7, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · June 29, 2010
  • 0 · Supplement · June 28, 2010
  • 0 · Supplement · April 3, 2009
  • 0 · Supplement · August 1, 2008
  • 0 · Supplement · July 16, 2008

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20240130). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20240130

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE ADVAIR DISKUS is a combination product containing a corticosteroid and a long-acting beta 2 -adrenergic agonist (LABA) indicated for: • Twice-daily treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 years and older. ( 1.1 ) • Maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction and reducing exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). ( 1.2 ) Important limitation of use: Not indicated for relief of acute bronchospasm. ( 1.1 , 1.2 ) 1.1 Treatment of Asthma ADVAIR DISKUS is indicated for the twice-daily treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 years and older. ADVAIR DISKUS should be used for patients not adequately controlled on a long-term asthma control medication such as an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) or whose disease warrants initiation of treatment with both an ICS and long-acting beta 2 -adrenergic agonist (LABA). Important Limitation of Use ADVAIR DISKUS is NOT indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm. 1.2 Maintenance Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50 is indicated for the twice-daily maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema. ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50 is also indicated to reduce exacerbations of COPD in patients with a history of exacerbations. ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50 twice daily is the only approved dosage for the treatment of COPD because an efficacy advantage of the higher strength ADVAIR DISKUS 500/50 over ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50 has not been demonstrated. Important Limitation of Use ADVAIR DISKUS is NOT indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm.

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ADVAIR DISKUS should be administered as 1 inhalation twice daily by the orally inhaled route only. After inhalation, the patient should rinse his/her mouth with water without swallowing to help reduce the risk of oropharyngeal candidiasis. More frequent administration or a greater number of inhalations (more than 1 inhalation twice daily) of the prescribed strength of ADVAIR DISKUS is not recommended as some patients are more likely to experience adverse effects with higher doses of salmeterol. Patients using ADVAIR DISKUS should not use additional LABA for any reason. [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 , 5.12 ).] • For oral inhalation only. ( 2 ) • Treatment of asthma in patients aged 12 years and older: 1 inhalation of ADVAIR DISKUS 100/50, ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50, or ADVAIR DISKUS 500/50 twice daily. Starting dosage is based on asthma severity. ( 2.1 ) • Treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 to 11 years: 1 inhalation of ADVAIR DISKUS 100/50 twice daily. ( 2.1 ) • Maintenance treatment of COPD: 1 inhalation of ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50 twice daily. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Asthma If asthma symptoms arise in the period between doses, an inhaled, short-acting beta 2 -agonist should be taken for immediate relief. Adult and Adolescent Patients Aged 12 Years and Older For patients aged 12 years and older, the dosage is 1 inhalation twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. When choosing the starting dosage strength of ADVAIR DISKUS, consider the patients’ disease severity, based on their previous asthma therapy, including the ICS dosage, as well as the patients’ current control of asthma symptoms and risk of future exacerbation. The maximum recommended dosage is ADVAIR DISKUS 500/50 twice daily. Improvement in asthma control following inhaled administration of ADVAIR DISKUS can occur within 30 minutes of beginning treatment, although maximum benefit may not be achieved for 1 week or longer after starting treatment. Individual patients will experience a variable time to onset and degree of symptom relief. For patients who do not respond adequately to the starting dosage after 2 weeks of therapy, replacing the current strength of ADVAIR DISKUS with a higher strength may provide additional improvement in asthma control. If a previously effective dosage regimen fails to provide adequate improvement in asthma control, the therapeutic regimen should be reevaluated and additional therapeutic options (e.g., replacing the current strength of ADVAIR DISKUS with a higher strength, adding additional ICS, initiating oral corticosteroids) should be considered. Pediatric Patients Aged 4 to 11 Years For patients with asthma aged 4 to 11 years who are not controlled on an ICS, the dosage is 1 inhalation of ADVAIR DISKUS 100/50 twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. 2.2 Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease The recommended dosage for patients with COPD is 1 inhalation of ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50 twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. If shortness of breath occurs in the period between doses, an inhaled, short-acting beta 2 -agonist should be taken for immediate relief.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Inhalation powder: Inhaler containing a foil blister strip of powder formulation for oral inhalation. The strip contains a combination of fluticasone propionate 100, 250, or 500 mcg and salmeterol 50 mcg per blister. Inhalation powder: Inhaler containing a combination of fluticasone propionate (100, 250, or 500 mcg) and salmeterol (50 mcg) as a powder formulation for oral inhalation. ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS The use of ADVAIR DISKUS is contraindicated in the following conditions: • Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . • Severe hypersensitivity to milk proteins or demonstrated hypersensitivity to fluticasone propionate, salmeterol, or any of the excipients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.11 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6.3 ), Description ( 11 )] . • Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or acute episodes of asthma or COPD requiring intensive measures. ( 4 ) • Severe hypersensitivity to milk proteins or demonstrated hypersensitivity to fluticasone propionate, salmeterol, or any of the excipients. ( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • LABA monotherapy increases the risk of serious asthma-related events. ( 5.1 ) • Do not initiate in acutely deteriorating asthma or COPD. Do not use to treat acute symptoms. ( 5.2 ) • Do not use in combination with an additional medicine containing a LABA because of risk of overdose. ( 5.3 ) • Candida albicans infection of the mouth and pharynx may occur. Monitor patients periodically. Advise the patient to rinse his/her mouth with water without swallowing after inhalation to help reduce the risk. ( 5.4 ) • Increased risk of pneumonia in patients with COPD. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of pneumonia. ( 5.5 ) • Potential worsening of infections (e.g., existing tuberculosis; fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections; ocular herpes simplex). Use with caution in patients with these infections. More serious or even fatal course of chickenpox or measles can occur in susceptible patients. ( 5.6 ) • Risk of impaired adrenal function when transferring from systemic corticosteroids. Taper patients slowly from systemic corticosteroids if transferring to ADVAIR DISKUS. ( 5.7 ) • Hypercorticism and adrenal suppression may occur with very high dosages or at the regular dosage in susceptible individuals. If such changes occur, discontinue ADVAIR DISKUS slowly. ( 5.8 ) • If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs, discontinue ADVAIR DISKUS and institute alternative therapy. ( 5.10 ) • Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular or central nervous system disorders because of beta-adrenergic stimulation. ( 5.12 ) • Assess for decrease in bone mineral density initially and periodically thereafter. ( 5.13 ) • Monitor growth of pediatric patients. ( 5.14 ) • Glaucoma and cataracts may occur with long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids. Consider referral to an ophthalmologist in patients who develop ocular symptoms or use ADVAIR DISKUS long term. ( 5.15 ) • Be alert to eosinophilic conditions, hypokalemia, and hyperglycemia. ( 5.16 , 5.18 ) • Use with caution in patients with convulsive disorders, thyrotoxicosis, diabetes mellitus, and ketoacidosis. ( 5.17 ) 5.1 Serious Asthma-Related Events – Hospitalizations, Intubations, Death Use of LABA as monotherapy (without ICS) for asthma is associated with an increased risk of asthma-related death [see Salmeterol Multicenter Asthma Research Trial (SMART)] . Available data from controlled clinical trials also suggest that use of LABA as monotherapy increases the risk of asthma-related hospitalization in pediatric and adolescent patients. These findings are considered a class effect of LABA monotherapy. When LABA are used in fixed-dose combination with ICS, data from large clinical trials do not show a significant increase in the risk of serious asthma-related events (hospitalizations, intubations, death) compared with ICS alone (see Serious Asthma-Related Events with Inhaled Corticosteroid/Long-acting Beta 2 -adrenergic Agonists) . Serious Asthma-Related Events with Inhaled Corticosteroid/Long-acting Beta 2 -adrenergic Agonists Four (4) large, 26-week, randomized, double-blind, active-controlled clinical safety trials were conducted to evaluate the risk of serious asthma-related events when LABA were used in fixed-dose combination with ICS compared with ICS alone in subjects with asthma. Three (3) trials included adult and adolescent subjects aged 12 years and older: 1 trial compared fluticasone propionate/salmeterol inhalation powder (ADVAIR DISKUS) with fluticasone propionate inhalation powder [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] , 1 trial compared mometasone furoate/formoterol with mometasone furoate, and 1 trial compared budesonide/formoterol with budesonide. The fourth trial included pediatric subjects aged 4 to 11 years and compared fluticasone propionate/salmeterol inhalation powder with fluticasone propionate inhalation powder [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] . The primary safety endpoint for all 4 trials was serious asthma-related events (hospitalizations, int …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS Use of LABA may result in the following: • Serious asthma-related events – hospitalizations, intubations, death [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Cardiovascular and central nervous system effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 )] Systemic and local corticosteroid use may result in the following: • Candida albicans infection [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] • Pneumonia in patients with COPD [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] • Immunosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] • Hypercorticism and adrenal suppression [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] • Reduction in bone mineral density [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.13 )] • Growth effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14 )] • Glaucoma and cataracts [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.15 )] Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥3%) include: • Asthma: Upper respiratory tract infection or inflammation, pharyngitis, dysphonia, oral candidiasis, bronchitis, cough, headaches, nausea and vomiting. ( 6.1 ) • COPD: Pneumonia, oral candidiasis, throat irritation, dysphonia, viral respiratory infections, headaches, musculoskeletal pain. ( 6.2 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact GlaxoSmithKline at 1-888-825-5249 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience in Asthma Adult and Adolescent Subjects Aged 12 Years and Older The incidence of adverse reactions associated with ADVAIR DISKUS in Table 2 is based upon two 12-week, placebo-controlled, U.S. clinical trials (Trials 1 and 2). A total of 705 adult and adolescent subjects (349 females and 356 males) previously treated with salmeterol or ICS were treated twice daily with ADVAIR DISKUS (100/50- or 250/50-mcg doses), fluticasone propionate inhalation powder (100- or 250-mcg doses), salmeterol inhalation powder 50 mcg, or placebo. The average duration of exposure was 60 to 79 days in the active treatment groups compared with 42 days in the placebo group. Table 2. Adverse Reactions with ADVAIR DISKUS with ≥3% Incidence and More Common than Placebo in Adult and Adolescent Subjects with Asthma Adverse Event ADVAIR DISKUS 100/50 (n = 92) % ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50 (n = 84) % Fluticasone Propionate 100 mcg (n = 90) % Fluticasone Propionate 250 mcg (n = 84) % Salmeterol 50 mcg (n = 180) % Placebo (n = 175) % Ear, nose, and throat Upper respiratory tract infection 27 21 29 25 19 14 Pharyngitis 13 10 7 12 8 6 Upper respiratory inflammation 7 6 7 8 8 5 Sinusitis 4 5 6 1 3 4 Hoarseness/dysphonia 5 2 2 4 5% and more frequently in the subjects treated with ADVAIR DISKUS were nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, nasal congestion, back pain, sinusitis, dizziness, nausea, pneumonia, candidiasis, and dysphonia. Overall, 55 (7%) of the subjects treated with ADVAIR DISKUS and 25 (3%) of the subjects treated with salmeterol developed pneumonia. The incidence of pneumonia was higher in subjects older than 65 years, 9% in the subjects treated with ADVAIR DISKUS compared with 4% in the subjects treated with ADVAIR DISKUS younger than 65 years. In the subjects treated with salmeterol, the incidence of pneumonia was the same (3%) in both age groups. [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 ).] Long-term (3 Years) Trial The safety of ADVAIR DISKUS 500/50 was evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter, international, 3-year trial in 6,184 adult subjects with COPD (4,684 males and 1,500 females). The mean age of the subjects was 65 years, and the majority (82%) was Caucasian. The distribution of adverse events was similar to that seen in the 1-year trials with ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50. In addition, pneumonia was reported in a sign …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS ADVAIR DISKUS has been used concomitantly with other drugs, including short-acting beta 2 -agonists, methylxanthines, and intranasal corticosteroids, commonly used in patients with asthma or COPD without adverse drug reactions [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . No formal drug interaction trials have been performed with ADVAIR DISKUS. • Strong cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, ketoconazole): Use not recommended. May increase risk of systemic corticosteroid and cardiovascular effects. ( 7.1 ) • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants: Use with extreme caution. May potentiate effect of salmeterol on vascular system. ( 7.2 ) • Beta-blockers: Use with caution. May block bronchodilatory effects of beta-agonists and produce severe bronchospasm. ( 7.3 ) • Diuretics: Use with caution. Electrocardiographic changes and/or hypokalemia associated with non–potassium-sparing diuretics may worsen with concomitant beta-agonists. ( 7.4 ) 7.1 Inhibitors of Cytochrome P450 3A4 Fluticasone propionate and salmeterol, the individual components of ADVAIR DISKUS, are substrates of CYP3A4. The use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, saquinavir, ketoconazole, telithromycin) with ADVAIR DISKUS is not recommended because increased systemic corticosteroid and increased cardiovascular adverse effects may occur. Ritonavir Fluticasone Propionate: A drug interaction trial with fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray in healthy subjects has shown that ritonavir (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) can significantly increase plasma fluticasone propionate exposure, resulting in significantly reduced serum cortisol concentrations [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . During postmarketing use, there have been reports of clinically significant drug interactions in patients receiving fluticasone propionate and ritonavir, resulting in systemic corticosteroid effects including Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal suppression. Ketoconazole Fluticasone Propionate: Coadministration of orally inhaled fluticasone propionate (1,000 mcg) and ketoconazole (200 mg once daily) resulted in a 1.9-fold increase in plasma fluticasone propionate exposure and a 45% decrease in plasma cortisol area under the curve (AUC), but had no effect on urinary excretion of cortisol. Salmeterol: In a drug interaction trial in 20 healthy subjects, coadministration of inhaled salmeterol (50 mcg twice daily) and oral ketoconazole (400 mg once daily) for 7 days resulted in greater systemic exposure to salmeterol (AUC increased 16-fold and C max increased 1.4-fold). Three (3) subjects were withdrawn due to beta 2 -agonist side effects (2 with prolonged QTc and 1 with palpitations and sinus tachycardia). Although there was no statistical effect on the mean QTc, coadministration of salmeterol and ketoconazole was associated with more frequent increases in QTc duration compared with salmeterol and placebo administration. 7.2 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors and Tricyclic Antidepressants ADVAIR DISKUS should be administered with extreme caution to patients being treated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, or within 2 weeks of discontinuation of such agents, because the action of salmeterol, a component of ADVAIR DISKUS, on the vascular system may be potentiated by these agents. 7.3 Beta-adrenergic Receptor Blocking Agents Beta-blockers not only block the pulmonary effect of beta-agonists, such as salmeterol, a component of ADVAIR DISKUS, but may also produce severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma or COPD. Therefore, patients with asthma or COPD should not normally be treated with beta-blockers. However, under certain circumstances, there may be no acceptable alternatives to the use of beta-adrenergic blocking agents for these patients; cardioselective beta-blockers could be considered, although they should be administered with caution. 7.4 Non–Po …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Hepatic impairment: Monitor patients for signs of increased drug exposure. ( 8.6 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are insufficient data on the use of ADVAIR DISKUS or individual monoproducts, fluticasone propionate and salmeterol xinafoate, in pregnant women. There are clinical considerations with the use of ADVAIR DISKUS in pregnant women. (See Clinical Considerations.) In animals, teratogenicity characteristic of corticosteroids, decreased fetal body weight and/or skeletal variations, in rats, mice, and rabbits were observed with subcutaneously administered maternal toxic doses of fluticasone propionate less than the maximum recommended human daily inhaled dose (MRHDID) on a mcg/m 2 basis. (See Data.) However, fluticasone propionate administered via inhalation to rats decreased fetal body weight, but did not induce teratogenicity at a maternal toxic dose less than the MRHDID on a mcg/m 2 basis. (See Data.) Experience with oral corticosteroids suggests that rodents are more prone to teratogenic effects from corticosteroids than humans. Oral administration of salmeterol to pregnant rabbits caused teratogenicity characteristic of beta-adrenoceptor stimulation at maternal doses approximately 50 times the MRHDID on an AUC basis. These adverse effects generally occurred at large multiples of the MRHDID when salmeterol was administered by the oral route to achieve high systemic exposures. No such effects occurred at an oral salmeterol dose approximately 20 times the MRHDID. (See Data.) The estimated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryofetal Risk: In women with poorly or moderately controlled asthma, there is an increased risk of several perinatal outcomes such as pre-eclampsia in the mother and prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age in the neonate. Pregnant women should be closely monitored and medication adjusted as necessary to maintain optimal control of asthma. Labor and Delivery: There are no human studies evaluating the effects of ADVAIR DISKUS during labor and delivery. Because of the potential for beta-agonist interference with uterine contractility, use of ADVAIR DISKUS during labor should be restricted to those patients in whom the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Data Human Data: Fluticasone Propionate: Following inhaled administration, fluticasone propionate was detected in the neonatal cord blood after delivery. Animal Data: Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol: In an embryofetal development study with pregnant rats that received the combination of subcutaneous administration of fluticasone propionate and oral administration of salmeterol at doses of 0/1,000; 30/0; 10/100; 30/1,000; and 100/10,000 mcg/kg/day (as fluticasone propionate/salmeterol) during the period of organogenesis, findings were generally consistent with the individual monoproducts and there was no exacerbation of expected fetal effects. Omphalocele, increased embryofetal deaths, decreased body weight, and skeletal variations were observed in rat fetuses in the presence of maternal toxicity when combining fluticasone propionate at a dose approximately equivalent to the MRHDID (on a mcg/m 2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 100 mcg/kg/day) and salmeterol at a dose approximately 970 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m 2 basis at a maternal oral dose of 10,000 mcg/kg/day). The rat no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) was observed when combining fluticasone propionate at a dose approximately 0.3 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m 2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 30 mcg/kg/day) and salmeterol at a dose approximately 100 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m 2 basis at a maternal oral dose of 1,000 mcg/kg/day). In an embryo …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action ADVAIR DISKUS ADVAIR DISKUS contains both fluticasone propionate and salmeterol. The mechanisms of action described below for the individual components apply to ADVAIR DISKUS. These drugs represent 2 different classes of medications (a synthetic corticosteroid and a LABA) that have different effects on clinical, physiologic, and inflammatory indices. Fluticasone Propionate Fluticasone propionate is a synthetic trifluorinated corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory activity. Fluticasone propionate has been shown in vitro to exhibit a binding affinity for the human glucocorticoid receptor that is 18 times that of dexamethasone, almost twice that of beclomethasone-17-monopropionate (BMP), the active metabolite of beclomethasone dipropionate, and over 3 times that of budesonide. Data from the McKenzie vasoconstrictor assay in man are consistent with these results. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Inflammation is an important component in the pathogenesis of asthma. Corticosteroids have been shown to have a wide range of actions on multiple cell types (e.g., mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes) and mediators (e.g., histamine, eicosanoids, leukotrienes, cytokines) involved in inflammation. These anti-inflammatory actions of corticosteroids contribute to their efficacy in asthma. Inflammation is also a component in the pathogenesis of COPD. In contrast to asthma, however, the predominant inflammatory cells in COPD include neutrophils, CD8+ T-lymphocytes, and macrophages. The effects of corticosteroids in the treatment of COPD are not well defined and ICS and fluticasone propionate when used apart from ADVAIR DISKUS are not indicated for the treatment of COPD. Salmeterol Xinafoate Salmeterol is a selective LABA. In vitro studies show salmeterol to be at least 50 times more selective for beta 2 -adrenoceptors than albuterol. Although beta 2 -adrenoceptors are the predominant adrenergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle and beta 1 -adrenoceptors are the predominant receptors in the heart, there are also beta 2 -adrenoceptors in the human heart comprising 10% to 50% of the total beta-adrenoceptors. The precise function of these receptors has not been established, but their presence raises the possibility that even selective beta 2 -agonists may have cardiac effects. The pharmacologic effects of beta 2 -adrenoceptor agonist drugs, including salmeterol, are at least in part attributable to stimulation of intracellular adenyl cyclase, the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic-3′,5′-adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP). Increased cyclic AMP levels cause relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle and inhibition of release of mediators of immediate hypersensitivity from cells, especially from mast cells. In vitro tests show that salmeterol is a potent and long-lasting inhibitor of the release of mast cell mediators, such as histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandin D 2 , from human lung. Salmeterol inhibits histamine-induced plasma protein extravasation and inhibits platelet-activating factor-induced eosinophil accumulation in the lungs of guinea pigs when administered by the inhaled route. In humans, single doses of salmeterol administered via inhalation aerosol attenuate allergen-induced bronchial hyper-responsiveness.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION ADVAIR DISKUS 100/50, ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50, and ADVAIR DISKUS 500/50 are combinations of fluticasone propionate and salmeterol xinafoate. One active component of ADVAIR DISKUS is fluticasone propionate, a corticosteroid having the chemical name S- (fluoromethyl) 6α,9-difluoro-11β,17-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carbothioate, 17-propionate and the following chemical structure: Fluticasone propionate is a white powder with a molecular weight of 500.6, and the empirical formula is C 25 H 31 F 3 O 5 S. It is practically insoluble in water, freely soluble in dimethyl sulfoxide and dimethylformamide, and slightly soluble in methanol and 95% ethanol. The other active component of ADVAIR DISKUS is salmeterol xinafoate, a beta 2 -adrenergic bronchodilator. Salmeterol xinafoate is the racemic form of the 1-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid salt of salmeterol. It has the chemical name 4-hydroxy-α 1 -[[[6-(4-phenylbutoxy)hexyl]amino]methyl]-1,3-benzenedimethanol, 1-hydroxy-2-naphthalenecarboxylate and the following chemical structure: Salmeterol xinafoate is a white powder with a molecular weight of 603.8, and the empirical formula is C 25 H 37 NO 4 •C 11 H 8 O 3 . It is freely soluble in methanol; slightly soluble in ethanol, chloroform, and isopropanol; and sparingly soluble in water. ADVAIR DISKUS is a purple plastic inhaler containing a foil blister strip. Each blister on the strip contains a white powder mix of micronized fluticasone propionate (100, 250, or 500 mcg) and micronized salmeterol xinafoate salt (72.5 mcg, equivalent to 50 mcg of salmeterol base) in 12.5 mg of formulation containing lactose monohydrate (which contains milk proteins). After the inhaler is activated, the powder is dispersed into the airstream created by the patient inhaling through the mouthpiece. Under standardized in vitro test conditions, ADVAIR DISKUS delivers 93, 233, and 465 mcg of fluticasone propionate and 45 mcg of salmeterol base per blister from ADVAIR DISKUS 100/50, ADVAIR DISKUS 250/50, and ADVAIR DISKUS 500/50, respectively, when tested at a flow rate of 60 L/min for 2 seconds. In adult subjects with obstructive lung disease and severely compromised lung function (mean FEV 1 20% to 30% of predicted), mean peak inspiratory flow (PIF) through the DISKUS inhaler was 82.4 L/min (range: 46.1 to 115.3 L/min). Inhalation profiles for adolescent (N = 13, aged 12 to 17 years) and adult (N = 17, aged 18 to 50 years) subjects with asthma inhaling maximally through the DISKUS inhaler show mean PIF of 122.2 L/min (range: 81.6 to 152.1 L/min). Inhalation profiles for pediatric subjects with asthma inhaling maximally through the DISKUS inhaler show a mean PIF of 75.5 L/min (range: 49.0 to 104.8 L/min) for the 4-year-old subject set (N = 20) and 107.3 L/min (range: 82.8 to 125.6 L/min) for the 8-year-old subject set (N = 20). The actual amount of drug delivered to the lung will depend on patient factors, such as inspiratory flow profile. Fluticasone propionate chemical structure Salmeterol xinafoate chemical structure

10 OVERDOSAGE No human overdosage data has been reported for ADVAIR DISKUS. ADVAIR DISKUS contains both fluticasone propionate and salmeterol; therefore, the risks associated with overdosage for the individual components described below apply to ADVAIR DISKUS. Treatment of overdosage consists of discontinuation of ADVAIR DISKUS together with institution of appropriate symptomatic and/or supportive therapy. The judicious use of a cardioselective beta-receptor blocker may be considered, bearing in mind that such medication can produce bronchospasm. Cardiac monitoring is recommended in cases of overdosage. 10.1 Fluticasone Propionate Chronic overdosage of fluticasone propionate may result in signs/symptoms of hypercorticism [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] . Inhalation by healthy volunteers of a single dose of 4,000 mcg of fluticasone propionate inhalation powder or single doses of 1,760 or 3,520 mcg of fluticasone propionate CFC inhalation aerosol was well tolerated. Fluticasone propionate given by inhalation aerosol at dosages of 1,320 mcg twice daily for 7 to 15 days to healthy human volunteers was also well tolerated. Repeat oral doses up to 80 mg daily for 10 days in healthy volunteers and repeat oral doses up to 20 mg daily for 42 days in subjects were well tolerated. Adverse reactions were of mild or moderate severity, and incidences were similar in active and placebo treatment groups. 10.2 Salmeterol The expected signs and symptoms with overdosage of salmeterol are those of excessive beta‐adrenergic stimulation and/or occurrence or exaggeration of any of the signs and symptoms of beta-adrenergic stimulation (e.g., seizures, angina, hypertension or hypotension, tachycardia with rates up to 200 beats/min, arrhythmias, nervousness, headache, tremor, muscle cramps, dry mouth, palpitation, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, malaise, insomnia, hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, metabolic acidosis). Overdosage with salmeterol can lead to clinically significant prolongation of the QTc interval, which can produce ventricular arrhythmias. As with all inhaled sympathomimetic medicines, cardiac arrest and even death may be associated with an overdose of salmeterol.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Product: 50090-4310 NDC: 50090-4310-0 60 POWDER in a INHALER / 1 in a CARTON

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
224,191
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: FLUTICASONE PROPIONATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
50090-4310-0 50090-4310 A-S Medication Solutions 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (50090-4310-0) / 60 POWDER in 1 INHALER May 28, 2019
50090-4502-0 50090-4502 A-S Medication Solutions 1 INHALER in 1 CARTON (50090-4502-0) / 60 POWDER in 1 INHALER September 4, 2019
50090-4310 50090-4310 A-S Medication Solutions — February 28, 2001
50090-4502 50090-4502 A-S Medication Solutions — February 5, 2001

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 11 sections on this page.