Compare albuterol vs. Advair

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

ADVERTISEMENT
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.

●●●●●
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.

●●●●●
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.
ADVERTISEMENT
Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Extended-release pill
  • Liquid
  • Inhaler
  • Nebulizer solution
  • Inhaler
Price
Lowest price
$46.51
Find instant savings near you
Lowest price
$51.14
Find instant savings near you
Want to save even more money?
Sign up now for a 30-day trial and save up to 95% at CVS, Kroger, Albertsons, and other pharmacies.
Learn more
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)