What is Advair? Learn about its uses, dosage forms, how to take it, costs, and everything you need to know about this asthma and COPD inhaler in 2026.
Advair is a prescription combination inhaler containing fluticasone propionate (an inhaled corticosteroid) and salmeterol (a long-acting beta-2 agonist, or LABA). It's manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and used for the long-term maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Advair is not a rescue inhaler — it won't help during a sudden asthma attack. Instead, it's taken twice daily to prevent symptoms and reduce flare-ups over time. You'll still need a separate rescue inhaler (like albuterol) for acute symptoms.
Advair comes in two formulations:
The first number refers to the fluticasone (steroid) dose, and the second to the salmeterol (bronchodilator) dose.
Yes. Wixela Inhub (made by Viatris) is the FDA-approved generic version of Advair Diskus. It contains the same active ingredients — fluticasone propionate and salmeterol — in the same strengths. Wixela Inhub is typically much more affordable, ranging from $50–$223 without insurance, compared to $210–$500+ for brand-name Advair. AirDuo RespiClick (by Teva) is another option with the same active ingredients in a different inhaler device, approved for asthma only.
Advair has three FDA-approved indications:
Advair is not approved for acute bronchospasm, status asthmaticus, or any emergency breathing situation. Always keep a rescue inhaler on hand.
Advair is inhaled orally, twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart (for example, once in the morning and once in the evening).
Why rinse your mouth? The corticosteroid component (fluticasone) can deposit in your mouth and throat, leading to oral thrush (a yeast infection) and throat irritation. Rinsing after every dose dramatically reduces these risks. Learn more about managing side effects in our Advair Side Effects guide.
Your doctor will start you on the lowest effective dose and adjust as needed. Never change your dose without medical guidance.
Advair is not right for everyone. Do not use Advair if you:
Use Advair with caution if you have:
Advair may interact with certain medications, including strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, beta-blockers, and MAO inhibitors. See our full guide on Advair Drug Interactions.
Advair can be expensive, but there are ways to pay less:
For a complete guide to saving money, see How to Save Money on Advair: Coupons, Discounts, and Patient Assistance.
Advair is one of the most widely prescribed combination inhalers for asthma and COPD — and for good reason. By combining an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid with a long-acting bronchodilator, it addresses both the underlying inflammation and the airway constriction that cause breathing problems.
If you're starting Advair or considering it, the most important things to remember are: take it twice daily (not as a rescue inhaler), rinse your mouth after every dose, and don't change your dose without talking to your doctor.
Ready to fill your prescription? Medfinder can help you find a pharmacy with Advair in stock near you.
Explore more Advair resources:
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