Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is fluticasone and salmeterol. It is a diskus inhaler that contains two medicines. You may also hear it called by its brand names Advair, or AirDuo. This inhaler helps treat breathing problems like asthma or COPD. It can help keep your breathing condition under control. To do so, you should not skip any doses.

This inhaler is often used once every 12 hours. You should read the "Instructions for Use". You can also ask your pharmacist to check your inhaler technique to make sure you are getting the full dose into your lungs. 

You should know this is not a rescue inhaler and cannot treat sudden shortness of breath. 

This medicine is usually well-tolerated. Common side effects include a headache, cough, hoarseness or sore throat. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking it, please talk with your doctor or pharmacist. 
After using your inhaler, you should rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. This will reduce your chances of getting an infection in your mouth or throat. 

As with any medicine, rare but more serious side effects can occur. You should read the "Patient information sheet" to learn which symptoms to watch for and when to report them. You should always tell your doctor if your breathing becomes worse instead of better. 

This inhaler can interact with other medicines. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines, vitamins or supplements.

Women should talk to their doctor before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding.

For best results with this inhaler, be sure to plan ahead for refills. Also, follow your doctor's advice about vaccinations and lifestyle changes that can help your condition.