Foradil

Common Name: formoterol

How does Foradil work?

Formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that helps to open airways and make breathing easier. It is used as long-term maintenance treatment of asthma in people six years of age and older who despite using regular inhaled corticosteroids, are having regular or frequent breakthrough symptoms of asthma.. Formoterol should start to work within 1 to 3 minutes after using. Formoterol should not be used by people whose asthma is controlled with occasional use of short-acting bronchodilators. The current official Foradil® monograph states that formoterol should not be used as a "rescue" medication to relieve asthma symptoms that are occurring at the moment. Formoterol fumarate has also been approved for the long-term treamtnent of adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Foradil?

Adults: For asthma, 1 capsule (12 µg) is inhaled using the Aerolizer inhaler twice daily, in the morning and evening. Some people may need 2 capsules inhaled morning and evening as directed by their doctor. For COPD, 1 or 2 capsules (12 µgor 24 µg) is inhaled using the Aerolizer inhaler twice daily, in the morning and evening. Children 6 to 16 years old: For asthma, 1 capsule (12 µg) is inhaled using the Aerolizer inhaler twice daily, in the morning and evening. In severe cases, children may need 2 capsules twice daily in the morning and evening. The effectiveness of the medication depends on the proper use of the device that delivers the formoterol. Have your doctor or pharmacist instruct you in the correct procedure. Formoterol should not be used to treat acute symptoms; it is meant for prevention purposes only. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you forget a dose of this medication take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses. Do not exceed the dosage recommended by your doctor.

What form(s) does Foradil come in?

Each clear, hard gelatin capsule of white, free-flowing powder for inhalation, contains formoterol fumarate 12 µg. Nonmedicinal ingredients include lactose.

What should I NOT take with Foradil?

Fomoterol should not be used by: people who have abnormal heart rhythms associated with fast heart rate anyone allergic to any of the ingredients of the medication. anyone with an allergy or intolerance to lactose or milk

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Foradil?

Asthma treatment: Formoterol is not a substitute for inhaled corticosteroids. It should not be used in place of a short-acting reliever medication for treatment of acute asthma symptoms. Be sure you have discussed with your doctor what to do in the case of asthma flare-ups. When you are using formoterol, you should only use a short-acting medication (such as salbutamol, terbutaline, or fenoterol) when needed for relief of breathing symptoms as instructed by your doctor. If you find you need to use your short-acting inhaler more often or your condition seems to worsen, call your doctor. Formoterol is intended for the maintenance treatment of asthma only and should not be used for acutely deteriorating asthma. The dosage of inhaled medications should not be stopped or reduced without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better after starting treatment with formoterol. Occupational hazards: Because in rare cases formoterol may cause dizziness, people operating dangerous machinery or driving cars should do so with caution until they have determined how formoterol affects them. Pregnancy: The safety of formoterol for use during pregnancy has not been established. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether formoterol passes into breast milk. Women should not use formoterol while breast-feeding. Children: The safety and effectiveness of formoterol have not been established for use by children younger than six years of age.