Key takeaways
Fluticasone/salmeterol (Advair) and fluticasone/umeclidinium/vilanterol (Trelegy Ellipta) are both inhaled medications used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They both contain fluticasone, an inhaled corticosteroid, which helps reduce inflammation in the lungs. However, they differ in their composition and usage. Advair combines fluticasone with salmeterol, a long-acting beta agonist (LABA), while Trelegy Ellipta includes fluticasone, umeclidinium (a long-acting muscarinic antagonist or LAMA), and vilanterol (another LABA). Advair is available in both Diskus and HFA forms and is typically taken as 1 to 2 puffs twice daily, whereas Trelegy Ellipta is taken as one inhalation once daily. Advair is available in generic form, but Trelegy Ellipta is only available as a brand-name medication. Common side effects of Advair include upper respiratory infections and sore throat, while Trelegy Ellipta may cause headaches and back pain. Both medications require you to rinse your mouth after use to prevent fungal infections, and they should not be used for sudden breathing problems.
