Key takeaways
Ipratropium (Atrovent HFA) and fluticasone/salmeterol (Advair) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Atrovent HFA is an inhaled anticholiergic medication used as maintenance treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by blocking acetylcholine in the lungs, which allows the muscles in your airway to relax, making it easier to breathe. Advair is an inhaler that combines fluticasone, an inhaled corticosteroid, and salmeterol, a long-acting beta agonist (LABA). Advair is used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and COPD by reducing inflammation and relaxing lung muscles. Atrovent HFA is only available as a brand name medication, while Advair is available in both brand and generic forms. Atrovent HFA is typically used four times a day, whereas Advair is used twice daily. Common side effects of Atrovent HFA include cough and headache, while Advair can cause upper respiratory infections and sore throat. Additionally, Advair requires rinsing your mouth after use to prevent fungal infections, a step not needed with Atrovent HFA.
