This suggests that adding a LABA to an ICS may notaffect or increase the risk of asthma-related death or intubation compared toICS alone.
Taken in combination, an ICS and LABA fight the two major causes ofasthma -- inflammation (swelling in the airways) and airway constriction (thetightening of muscles that surround the airways). Inhaled corticosteroidstreat the inflammation, while LABAs treat the airway constriction.
About the Study Selection
The analysis included 66 randomized, controlled trials conducted by GSKthat compared the ICS fluticasone propionate plus salmeterol administered in asingle device, as Advair, or an ICS and salmeterol administered in separatedevices versus ICS alone. The study involved 20,966 participants withpersistent asthma. The analysis looked at studies with durations of 1 week to52 weeks. The median study duration was 12 weeks.
About Advair Diskus
Advair Diskus(R), a fixed-dose treatment, combines two medications in onedevice to help prevent and control asthma symptoms. Advair(R) contains boththe inhaled corticosteroid, fluticasone propionate, to reduce inflammation;and an inhaled long-acting bronchodilator, salmeterol, to help prevent andreduce airway constriction. Advair is for people who still have symptoms onanother asthma controller, or whose disease severity clearly warrantstreatment with two maintenance therapies.
Important Information about Advair Diskus
Advair Diskus won't replace fast-acting inhalers for sudden symptoms andshould not be taken more than twice a day. Advair Diskus contains salmeterol.In patients with asthma, medicines like salmeterol may increase the chance ofasthma-related death. So Advair Diskus is not for people whose asthma is wellcontrolled on another controller medicine. People should speak to theirdoctor about the risks and benefits of treating their asthma with AdvairDiskus. People taking Advair Diskus should see their doctor if their asthmadoes not improve. People should tell their doctor if they have a heartcondition or high blood pressure. Some people may experience increased bloodpressure, heart rate, or changes in heart rhythm. Advair Diskus is forpatients 4 years and older. For patients 4 to 11 years old, Advair Diskus100/50 is for those who have asthma symptoms while on an inhaledcorticosteroid.
About Meta-Analysis
Large-scale, long-term, prospective clinical trials in patients with thedisease, with a specific outcome as the endpoint are generally accepted as themost scientifically rigorous way to examine the safety and benefits of amedicine.
