Key takeaways
AirDuo (fluticasone/salmeterol) and Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol) are both combination inhalers used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and contain the same active ingredients: fluticasone, an inhaled corticosteroid, and salmeterol, a long-acting beta agonist (LABA). However, they differ in their FDA-approved uses and formulations. AirDuo is approved for asthma in individuals aged 12 and older, while Advair Diskus is approved for both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults and children aged 4 and older, with Advair HFA being for asthma only. AirDuo is available in three strengths and is typically taken as one inhalation twice daily, whereas Advair Diskus and Advair HFA have different dosing options, with Advair Diskus also being used for COPD. AirDuo is available as AirDuo RespiClick and AirDuo Digihaler, the latter being a smart inhaler that connects to a phone app. Advair is available as Advair Diskus and Advair HFA, with the Diskus being a dry powder inhaler and the HFA a metered-dose inhaler. Common side effects for both medications include upper respiratory infections and headaches, but Advair has a higher incidence of these side effects. Both medications can cause oral thrush, so it's important to rinse your mouth after use. They also share similar drug interactions and warnings, such as not being suitable for sudden asthma attacks and potential heart-related side effects.
