Breo vs. Advair: Which One Is Right for Me?

Key takeaways

• Both Breo and Advair are inhalers used to manage asthma and COPD, but they differ in their active ingredients and dosing schedules.

• Understanding your specific condition, lifestyle, and medication preferences can help determine which inhaler suits you best.

• Side effects and cost considerations vary between the two, making personalized medical advice important.

• Telehealth services like Doctronic.ai offer convenient access to doctors who can guide you on the right choice.

• Regular follow-up and monitoring are essential regardless of the inhaler prescribed to ensure effective management of your respiratory condition.

Understanding Breo and Advair: What Are They?

Breo Ellipta and Advair Diskus are both prescription inhalers designed to help people with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) breathe easier. They combine two types of medications: a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation in the lungs, and a long-acting bronchodilator to keep airways open. Despite their similarities, they have distinct differences that can impact which one is better suited for you.

Active Ingredients and How They Work

Breo contains fluticasone furoate, a corticosteroid, and vilanterol, a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA). Advair combines fluticasone propionate, another corticosteroid, with salmeterol, also a LABA. Both corticosteroids help reduce airway swelling, while the LABAs relax muscles around the airways, improving airflow.

The key difference lies in the specific corticosteroid and LABA used, which affects dosing frequency and duration of action. Breo is typically taken once daily, while Advair usually requires twice-daily dosing. This can influence convenience and adherence to treatment. For patients who may struggle with remembering to take medication multiple times a day, Breo's once-daily regimen can be a significant advantage, potentially leading to better overall management of their condition.

Approved Uses and Patient Profiles

Breo is approved for maintenance treatment of COPD and asthma in patients aged 18 and older. Advair is approved for asthma treatment in patients 4 years and older and for COPD maintenance in adults. If you have asthma as a child or adolescent, Advair might be the more common choice, but adult patients with COPD often benefit from Breo’s once-daily dosing.

In addition to their primary uses, both inhalers have been studied for effectiveness in various populations, including those with more severe forms of asthma or COPD. For instance, clinical trials have shown that Breo can significantly improve lung function and reduce the frequency of exacerbations in patients with moderate to severe COPD. Similarly, Advair has been widely used in pediatric populations, demonstrating its safety and efficacy in managing asthma symptoms in younger patients. Understanding these nuances can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about which inhaler may be more appropriate based on individual health needs and lifestyle considerations.

Comparing Effectiveness and Convenience

How Well Do They Control Symptoms?

Both inhalers effectively reduce symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing when used as prescribed. Clinical studies show that Breo’s once-daily dosing provides similar or sometimes better lung function improvement compared to Advair’s twice-daily use. However, individual responses vary, so what works well for one person might differ for another. For instance, some patients may find that the longer-acting components in Breo offer more sustained relief throughout the day, while others might prefer the flexibility of dosing that Advair provides. This variability underscores the importance of personalized treatment plans, which can be tailored to the specific needs and lifestyle of each patient.

Dosing and Ease of Use

One of Breo’s biggest advantages is its simple once-a-day dosing schedule. This can improve medication adherence, especially for people with busy lifestyles. Advair’s twice-daily requirement means more frequent use, which some patients find less convenient. The once-daily regimen of Breo can help reduce the mental load of managing multiple medications, making it easier for patients to integrate their inhaler into their daily routine. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for those who may struggle with remembering to take their medication consistently due to hectic schedules or cognitive challenges.

Both inhalers come in dry powder inhaler devices that are easy to use once you learn the technique, but it’s important to get proper instruction from your healthcare provider to ensure you’re getting the full dose each time. The design of these inhalers can also play a role in their effectiveness. Some patients may find that the inhalation technique required for one device feels more natural than the other, potentially impacting how well the medication is delivered to the lungs. Therefore, it’s crucial for patients to practice their inhalation technique under supervision and to communicate any difficulties they encounter, as this feedback can lead to adjustments that enhance their overall treatment experience.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Common Side Effects

Both Breo and Advair share similar side effects due to their corticosteroid and LABA components. These can include throat irritation, headaches, hoarseness, oral thrush (a fungal infection), increased blood pressure and cough. Rinsing your mouth after inhalation can help reduce some of these issues.

Warnings and Precautions

LABAs like vilanterol and salmeterol carry a warning that they should not be used alone without a corticosteroid because of the increased risk of severe asthma attacks. Both Breo and Advair combine these safely with corticosteroids.

People with certain heart conditions or who are sensitive to beta-agonists should discuss risks with their doctor. Also, never stop or change your inhaler regimen without consulting a healthcare professional.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Cost can be a deciding factor for many when choosing between Breo and Advair. Generally, Advair has been on the market longer and may be available in generic forms, which can lower the price. Breo, being newer, might be more expensive, but insurance coverage varies widely.

Checking with your insurance provider and pharmacy about copays and coverage is important. Sometimes, patient assistance programs or manufacturer discounts can help reduce out-of-pocket costs.

How to Choose the Right Inhaler for You

Assessing Your Medical Needs

Consider your diagnosis, the severity of symptoms, and how often you need medication. If you prefer a simpler once-daily schedule, Breo might be appealing. If you have been stable on Advair or your doctor recommends it for your age group or condition, that may be the better choice.

Consulting a Healthcare Provider

Choosing the right inhaler is a decision best made with medical guidance. Telehealth platforms like Doctronic.ai offer quick access to licensed doctors who can evaluate your symptoms, review your medical history, and recommend the most appropriate treatment. This is especially helpful if you want to avoid in-person visits or need advice outside regular office hours.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Regardless of which inhaler you start, regular follow-up is essential to ensure the medication is working well and side effects are manageable. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose or switch medications based on your progress.

Managing Your Respiratory Health with Confidence

Living with asthma or COPD means staying proactive about your health. Using the right inhaler can make a big difference in controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. Both Breo and Advair have their strengths, and your choice depends on your unique needs and preferences.

If you have questions or want personalized advice, consider reaching out to a trusted telehealth service like Doctronic.ai. Their AI-powered platform and 24/7 access to doctors can help you get answers quickly and make informed decisions about your care.

References 

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - World Health Organization

• Beta2-agonists Defined | AAAAI