Compare albuterol vs. Advair

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Makes it easier to breathe.

ProAir HFA (albuterol) acts quickly to stop asthma attacks and help you breathe easier. However, it is not used for long-term treatment and prevention of asthma since its effects don't last long.

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3.9/ 5 average rating with 535 reviewsforalbuterol
Prevents breathing problems.

Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol) combines two medicines into one inhaler, but it might be expensive.

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3.8/ 5 average rating with 799 reviewsforAdvair
Upsides
  • Works quickly to relieve symptoms of asthma.
  • Helps prevent asthma attacks caused by exercise.
  • The metered-dose inhaler is small enough to carry around making it convenient to use when needed.
  • ProAir HFA (albuterol) is also available in the form of tablets and liquid.
  • The inhaler is safe to be used in children age 4 or older.
  • 2-in-1 medicine is more effective together than alone.
  • The diskus is used to treat both COPD and asthma.
Downsides
  • ProAir HFA (albuterol) is only used for quick relief of asthma attacks and not for long-term treatment.
  • No generic form of the inhaler is available so it can be expensive for those without insurance.
  • Can cause your heart to beat faster, which is an uncomfortable side effect. Might not be a good option for those with heart problems since the medicine can raise your blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Mouthpiece of the inhaler should be cleaned at least once a week so that it can continue to work properly.
  • Children might find the inhaler difficult to use.
  • Take it daily and consistently for the best results. It is not for on-demand treatment of wheezing or asthma attacks.
  • Rinse your mouth with water after each inhalation to avoid fungal infections of the mouth.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Extended-release pill
  • Liquid
  • Inhaler
  • Nebulizer solution
  • Inhaler
Price
Lowest price
$44.97
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Lowest price
$51.14
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Reviews
535 reviews so far
73%
saidit'sworth it
51%
saiditworked well
7%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used ProAir HFA (albuterol)?

Leave a review
799 reviews so far
66%
saidit'sworth it
48%
saiditworked well
11%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol)?

Leave a review
Side effects
9possible side effects
  • Tremor
    24%
  • Headache
    19%
  • Nervousness
    9%
  • Nausea/Vomiting
    4%
  • Increased heart rate
    3%
  • Muscle cramps
    3%
  • Abnormal heartbeat
    2%
  • Difficulty sleeping
    2%
  • Dizziness
    2%
See more detailed side effects
15possible side effects
  • Lung infection
    27%
  • Sore throat
    13%
  • Headaches
    12%
  • Lung inflammation
    7%
  • Hoarseness
    5%
  • Sinus inflammation
    4%
  • Colds and flu
    4%
  • Nausea and vomiting
    4%
  • Stomach upset
    4%
  • Diarrhea
    4%
  • Muscle and joint pain
    4%
  • Stomach flu
    3%
  • Fungal infections
    3%
  • Cough
    3%
  • Bronchitis
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Worsening of asthma attack
    • Using a new canister of ProAir HFA (albuterol) for the first time
  • Frequent use of ProAir HFA (albuterol)
  • Effects on heart
    • Using ProAir HFA (albuterol) at more than the recommended doses
    • People with heart problems and/or an overactive thyroid
  • Life-threatening effects
    • Using ProAir HFA (albuterol) at more than the recommended doses
  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Lowered potassium levels in blood
    • Taking medications that lower potassium such as certain diuretics
    • History of low potassium levels
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Increased risk of death
    • Asthma
    • Children under 18
  • Increased risk of infections
    • History of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
    • COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
    • Age greater than 65 years
  • Mouth and throat infection
    • Not rinsing mouth after use
    • Higher dose of the corticosteroid medication contained in Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol)
  • Asthma attack
  • Heart disease
    • High blood pressure
    • Heart failure
    • Heart beat problems
    • Taking more Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol) than recommended
  • Serious allergic reaction
    • Milk allergy
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about ProAir HFA (albuterol)
Learn more about Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol)