Most people get this one thing wrong about taking Advair

Advair, an inhaler used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is one of the ten most popular drugs in the United States, resulting in more than $5 billion dollars in sales. 

Common, well-known side effects can include congestion, throat dryness, runny nose, and sneezing. BUT did you know that using Advair can also lead to serious fungal infections in your mouth and throat? 

According to our expert pharmacists, this side effect is something you can easily prevent … if you do this one, simple step that most people don’t know about when using Advair inhalers. 

After each use of Advair, ALWAYS rinse your mouth out with water and spit. Alternatively, you can also brush your teeth after using.

This is an important step because a small amount of the corticosteroid in the inhaler can get stuck in your mouth or throat, leading to a fungal infection called thrush. Rinsing your mouth helps remove any leftover corticosteroids, which then reduces your chance of a throat or mouth infection. 

Easy enough, right? 

Here are some other useful tips:

  1. Dry-powder inhalers such as Advair DISKUS should be held in a level and flat position. 
  2. Hold DISKUS in your left hand and place thumb of right hand in the thumb grip. Slide the level until you hear it click. Your dose is now ready. 
  3. Exhale deeply away from the diskus, then put your mouth on opening and inhale deep and fast!
  4. Dry-powder inhalers often require more force to inhale your medicine.  
  5. Make sure to hold your breath for 10 seconds after inhaling your dose then breathe out fully.

P.S. Want to save thousands on your Advair prescriptions? Check out our guide here. 

Jessica Nouhavandi