What Is AirDuo Used For?
AirDuo RespiClick is an inhaler for treating asthma in patients 12 years and older. It combines fluticasone propionate (a corticosteroid) and salmeterol (a long-acting beta-agonist) to reduce inflammation and relax airway muscles, making breathing easier during asthma attacks or ongoing management.[1]
How Do You Use AirDuo for Breathing Issues?
Press the dose indicator to load a dose, then inhale deeply and slowly through your mouth while pressing the canister. Hold your breath for 5-10 seconds, exhale, and wait at least 30 seconds before the next puff if needed (up to twice daily). Shake before first use or if unused for 7 days. It's breath-activated, so no spacer is required.[1][2]
Who Can Use AirDuo and When?
Approved for asthma maintenance, not for sudden relief—use a rescue inhaler like albuterol for acute symptoms. Not for patients under 12 or those with COPD. Rinse mouth after use to prevent thrush.[1]
Common Side Effects Patients Report
Includes throat irritation, hoarseness, headache, and upper respiratory infections. Rare risks: paradoxical bronchospasm or adrenal suppression with overuse. Black box warning for increased asthma-related deaths with long-acting beta-agonists alone.[2]
How Does AirDuo Compare to Similar Inhalers?
| Inhaler | Key Difference | Use Case |
|---------|---------------|----------|
| Advair Diskus | Dry powder, similar drugs | Asthma/COPD |
| Symbicort | Budesonide/formoterol | Asthma/COPD, flexi dosing |
| Breo Ellipta | Once-daily | Asthma/COPD maintenance |
AirDuo is a generic version of Advair, often cheaper without sacrificing efficacy.[3]
Cost and Availability
Generic fluticasone/salmeterol inhalers like AirDuo cost $100-200 for 30 days without insurance. Check patents: AirDuo RespiClick's key formulation patent expires in 2031, with challenges ongoing.[4] Available by prescription at major pharmacies.
[1] FDA Label: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/205470s000lbl.pdf
[2] Teva Pharmaceuticals: https://www.airduorespiclick.com
[3] GoodRx Comparison: https://www.goodrx.com/compare/airduo-respiclick-vs-advair-diskus
[4] DrugPatentWatch.com: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/AIRDUO+RESPICLICK