The price of generic fluticasone salmeterol, an inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta-agonist combination used to treat asthma and COPD, varies based on factors such as dosage, quantity, and pharmacy.
How much does generic fluticasone salmeterol cost?
Without insurance, a 30-day supply of generic fluticasone salmeterol inhalers can range from approximately $40 to over $100. Prices can be lower with discount cards or coupons. For example, GoodRx lists prices for a 120-metered-dose inhaler of 250 mcg/50 mcg at around $40 to $70 depending on the pharmacy [1]. Prices for a 250 mcg/50 mcg 60-metered-dose inhaler can be around $40 to $60 [1].
What insurance plans cover generic fluticasone salmeterol?
Most major insurance plans cover generic fluticasone salmeterol. The out-of-pocket cost for individuals with insurance will depend on their specific plan, including their deductible, copay, and coinsurance. Many insurance formularies list generic fluticasone salmeterol as a preferred or covered medication.
When did generic fluticasone salmeterol become available?
The generic version of fluticasone salmeterol became available after the patent expiration of the branded product, Advair Diskus. Patent protection typically lasts for a set number of years, and once expired, other manufacturers can produce and market generic versions of the drug. The original patent for Advair Diskus began to expire around 2010, with generic versions becoming more widely available in the subsequent years [2].
What are the brand names for fluticasone salmeterol?
The most well-known brand name for fluticasone salmeterol is Advair, which is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). Advair is available in different formulations, including Advair Diskus and Advair HFA [3]. Other brands may also exist, but Advair is the primary reference product.
How does generic fluticasone salmeterol compare to brand-name Advair?
Generic fluticasone salmeterol is designed to be therapeutically equivalent to brand-name Advair. This means it contains the same active ingredients in the same strength and dosage form, and it works in the same way in the body [4]. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires generic drugs to meet the same standards of safety and efficacy as their brand-name counterparts. The primary difference is typically the cost, with generics being significantly less expensive.
What are the potential side effects of fluticasone salmeterol?
Common side effects of fluticasone salmeterol can include headache, throat irritation, hoarseness, muscle aches, and tremors. More serious, though less common, side effects can include increased risk of pneumonia in COPD patients, paradoxical bronchospasm (sudden worsening of breathing difficulty), and certain heart-related issues. It is important to discuss any concerns about side effects with a healthcare provider [5].
What are the different dosages of fluticasone salmeterol?
Fluticasone salmeterol is available in various strengths, typically indicated by the microgram (mcg) amounts of fluticasone propionate and salmeterol xinafoate per inhalation. Common dosages include 100 mcg/50 mcg, 250 mcg/50 mcg, and 500 mcg/50 mcg. The appropriate dosage is determined by the severity of the patient's condition and is prescribed by a doctor [5].
Where can I find patent information for fluticasone salmeterol?
Patent information for pharmaceutical drugs, including fluticasone salmeterol and its branded counterpart Advair, can be found through resources like the FDA's Orange Book and specialized patent databases. DrugPatentWatch.com provides information on drug patents, exclusivity, and litigation, which can be a valuable resource for understanding patent landscapes [2].
Sources:
1. GoodRx. (n.d.). Fluticasone & Salmeterol Prices, Coupons, and Patient Assistance Programs. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/fluticasone-salmeterol
2. DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Advair Diskus Patent Information. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/advair-diskus
3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations (Orange Book). Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/ob/default.cfm
4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Generic Drugs: Questions & Answers. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/generic-drugs-questions-answers
5. National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Fluticasone and Salmeterol Inhalation. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601232.html