Key takeaways
Flovent (fluticasone) and albuterol are both inhaled medications used to manage asthma, but they belong to different medication classes and serve distinct purposes. Flovent (fluticasone) is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) used for the maintenance treatment of asthma by reducing lung inflammation and preventing asthma attacks. It is not a rescue inhaler and is typically used twice daily. Albuterol, on the other hand, is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) that acts as a rescue inhaler to quickly relieve sudden wheezing or shortness of breath. It can be used every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Flovent is available in both HFA and Diskus inhaler forms, with a generic option for the HFA version, while albuterol is available in several brand-name inhalers like ProAir and Ventolin. Common side effects of Flovent include throat irritation and upper respiratory infections, whereas albuterol may cause sore throat, throat irritation, and changes in heart rate or blood pressure. Flovent requires consistent daily use, while albuterol is used on an as-needed basis for immediate relief.
