Advair Diskus is a widely prescribed inhaler for asthma and COPD. However, due to cost, side effects, or allergies, it may not be suitable for everyone. Fortunately, several comparable inhalers offer alternative treatment options. This article explores Advair Diskus alternatives, comparing their uses, dosages, and benefits.
Advair Diskus: An Overview
Advair Diskus combines fluticasone propionate, an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) to reduce lung inflammation, and salmeterol, a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) to relax lung muscles and open airways. While effective for managing asthma and COPD symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing, it’s crucial to understand potential alternatives.
Exploring Advair Alternatives
Numerous Advair Diskus alternatives exist in various forms, including metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, and soft-mist inhalers, available in both generic and brand-name options.
For persistent asthma, ICS and LABA combinations are commonly prescribed. Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol), Breo (fluticasone/vilanterol), and Dulera (mometasone/formoterol) are comparable to Advair Diskus in their combined approach. Other options include long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) like Spiriva (tiotropium), leukotriene modifiers like Singular (montelukast), and biologics like Xolair (omalizumab). These alternatives vary in mechanism, cost, and administration.
Important Note: Advair and its alternatives are maintenance treatments, not rescue inhalers for acute attacks. Rescue inhalers like ProAir (albuterol) or Ventolin (albuterol) are prescribed for immediate relief during asthma or COPD exacerbations.
The table above provides a concise comparison of several Advair Diskus alternatives, including their uses, dosages, and potential savings options.
Top Advair Diskus Alternatives: A Closer Look
Let’s delve deeper into five prominent Advair alternatives:
1. Wixela Inhub (Generic Advair Diskus)
Wixela Inhub is the first FDA-approved generic version of Advair Diskus, containing the same active ingredients and offering comparable efficacy in managing asthma and COPD symptoms. Its primary advantage lies in its lower cost compared to the brand-name Advair.
2. Advair HFA
Advair HFA is a metered-dose inhaler version of Advair, delivering the same medication but through a different delivery system. While requiring coordination between inhalation and canister activation, Advair HFA lacks the milk proteins found in Advair Diskus, making it suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. Note that Advair HFA is only approved for asthma treatment.
3. Breo Ellipta
Breo Ellipta, containing fluticasone furoate and vilanterol, is a once-daily dry powder inhaler for asthma and COPD. Its simplified once-daily dosing may be preferable for those who struggle with remembering twice-daily administration. However, Breo Ellipta is approved for asthma in individuals 18 years and older, unlike Advair Diskus, which is approved for ages four and up.
4. Anoro Ellipta
Anoro Ellipta, combining umeclidinium and vilanterol, is a once-daily dry powder inhaler specifically for COPD. Studies suggest Anoro Ellipta may improve lung function more effectively than Advair Diskus over time. It’s important to note that Anoro Ellipta is not indicated for asthma treatment.
5. Trelegy Ellipta
Trelegy Ellipta is a triple-therapy option for COPD, combining fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol in a once-daily dry powder inhaler. This may be an option for individuals whose COPD symptoms are not adequately controlled by Advair Diskus. However, Trelegy contains milk proteins and may not be suitable for those with milk allergies.
Natural Alternatives and Lifestyle Modifications
Alongside medication, natural alternatives and lifestyle changes can contribute to managing asthma and COPD. These include maintaining a healthy weight, stress reduction, smoking cessation, breathing exercises (pursed lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing), and exercises like yoga or tai chi. Supplements like Vitamin D and herbal remedies like ginseng may also offer benefits, but consulting a healthcare provider before using them is crucial due to potential drug interactions.
Switching to an Advair Alternative: Important Considerations
Switching to a different inhaler should always be done under medical supervision. Never abruptly stop Advair Diskus, as this can worsen symptoms and cause withdrawal effects. Consult your doctor to discuss the best alternative for your specific needs. Ensure you understand how to use the new inhaler correctly, check your insurance coverage for cost considerations, and discuss potential side effects and drug interactions with your healthcare provider. Using a prescription discount card can also help lower medication costs.
