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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › DRUGS FOR OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES › ADRENERGICS, INHALANTS › Selective beta-2-adrenoreceptor agonists
formoterol
R03AC13
Forms & Strengths
- Inhalation aerosol (pressurized metered‑dose inhaler, 12 µg per actuation)
- Dry powder inhaler, 6 µg per inhalation
- Nebulizer solution 0.5 mg/mL
Adult Dosing
- 12 µg inhaled twice daily (total 24 µg)
- Alternatively 6 µg twice daily for patients requiring lower dose
- Do not exceed 24 µg per day
Pediatric Dosing
- ≥12 years: 12 µg inhaled twice daily
- 4–11 years: 6 µg inhaled twice daily (if approved)
- Not recommended <4 years
Indications
- Maintenance therapy of asthma in combination with inhaled corticosteroid
- Long‑term management of COPD
- Prevention of exercise‑induced bronchospasm (with SABA)
Mechanism of Action
- Selective β2‑adrenergic receptor agonist → ↑ cAMP → bronchodilation
- Onset of action within minutes, duration ≈12 h
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to formoterol or excipients
- Severe paradoxical bronchospasm
- Use as sole therapy in asthma (must be combined with corticosteroid)
- Acute asthma attack (requires rapid‑acting bronchodilator)
Adverse Reactions
- Tremor
- Palpitations or tachycardia
- Headache
- Hypokalemia
- Muscle cramps
- Throat irritation/cough
- Paradoxical bronchospasm
Drug Interactions
- Non‑selective β‑blockers (e.g., propranolol) ↓ bronchodilatory effect
- Other sympathomimetics → additive cardiovascular effects
- Diuretics → ↑ risk of hypokalemia
- MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants → enhanced β2 effects
- Other LABAs → increased risk of tachyarrhythmia
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use