Optimaltherapy for many patients with persistent moderate to severe asthma requirestreatment of both these components.
The study was designed to primarily show that Advair improved the rate ofexacerbations compared to Flovent. While Advair patients had a lowerexacerbation rate than those patients in the Flovent group, the difference wasnot statistically significant. On most of the secondary endpoints, patientsgiven Advair performed better than patients who used Flovent. Forcedexpiratory volume in one second (FEV1) improved in Advair patients. Bothmorning and evening peak expiratory flow (PEF) were also improved in theAdvair group. Patients using Advair were also less likely to awake at nightdue to asthma-related breathing difficulties. Additionally, the Advair groupshowed reductions in the rate of daily symptoms and the need for a rescueinhaler.
Both Advair and Flovent were well tolerated. Over a one-year period, theoverall incidence of adverse events was similar between the two groups.
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 their doctorabout the risks and benefits of treating their asthma with Advair Diskus.People taking Advair Diskus should see their doctor if their asthma does notimprove. People should tell their doctor if they have a heart condition orhigh blood pressure. Some people may experience increased blood pressure,heart rate, or changes in heart rhythm. Advair Diskus is for patients 4 yearsand older. For patients 4 to 11 years old, Advair Diskus 100/50 is for thosewho have asthma symptoms while on an inhaled corticosteroid.
About GlaxoSmithKline
GlaxoSmithKline is one of the world's leading research-basedpharmaceutical and healthcare companies. GlaxoSmithKline is committed toimproving the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel betterand live longer. For company information visit http://www.gsk.com.
SOURCE GlaxoSmithKline
