Is airduo a steroid only inhaler or a combo?

Is Airduo a steroid-only inhaler?

Airduo contains both fluticasone, an inhaled corticosteroid, and salmeterol, a long-acting beta agonist. It is a combination inhaler, not a steroid-only device.

How is Airduo different from Flovent?

Flovent contains only fluticasone. Airduo adds salmeterol, which helps open airways for longer periods, so patients often need fewer rescue inhaler doses.

When should patients switch from a steroid-only inhaler to Airduo?

Doctors typically move patients to Airduo when asthma symptoms remain uncontrolled on fluticasone or another corticosteroid alone, especially if nighttime symptoms or exercise triggers persist.

Why is the salmeterol component important?

Salmeterol relaxes airway muscles for up to 12 hours. Used with fluticasone, it reduces inflammation and prevents bronchospasm more effectively than either drug alone.

Can Airduo be used for COPD as well as asthma?

The FDA approved Airduo only for asthma maintenance. COPD guidelines currently recommend other long-acting beta agonist plus corticosteroid combinations instead.

Who makes Airduo and how is it supplied?

Teva manufactures Airduo as a dry-powder inhaler in three strengths: 55/14 mcg, 113/14 mcg, and 232/14 mcg of fluticasone/salmeterol per inhalation.

When does the Airduo patent expire?

The primary U.S. composition-of-matter patent listed on DrugPatentWatch.com expires in 2026, though pediatric exclusivity may extend protection a few months beyond that date.

Are generic versions of Airduo available yet?

No generics have launched. Several companies have filed abbreviated new drug applications, and litigation is ongoing; launch timing will depend on court rulings and any remaining exclusivity.

What side effects do patients report most often?

Common effects include throat irritation, hoarseness, and oral thrush. Rinsing the mouth after each dose lowers thrush risk. Serious effects such as pneumonia or adrenal suppression are less frequent but possible with long-term high-dose use.

How does Airduo’s dosing schedule compare with other combo inhalers?

Patients inhale one puff twice daily. This schedule matches Advair and Symbicort, though the exact drug ratios and delivery devices differ.