Formoterol is used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (a long-term lung disease that causes airflow obstruction making it hard to breathe) and manage breathing problems caused by asthma.
This medicine is used together with long-term asthma controllers such as inhaled corticosteroids. It belongs to a group of medicines called "bronchodilators", which helps open the airways. Formoterol treats asthma or chest illnesses by relaxing the airways in your lungs, and relieving chest tightness, wheezing, and cough so you can breathe more easily.
Formoterol is also used to prevent asthma brought on by exercise.
Use Formoterol exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Try to use it at the same time each day.
If you are using Formoterol to relieve asthma brought on by exercise, use your inhaler 15 minutes before you start exercising.
Formoterol is available as different types of devices, such as turbohaler, easyhaler, novolizer, or a capsule inhaler. It is also available as nebulising solution, to be used with a machine called nebuliser.
Make sure you know how to use the specific device you have been given. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you how to use it.
Wipe the mouthpiece of the inhaler with a dry tissue to clean it. Do not wash or put any part of your inhaler in water.
Do not share your inhaler with others as it could spread infection.
Formoterol must be used regularly for it to be effective. Continue using this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not use Formoterol alone to treat asthma and in sudden severe symptoms of asthma.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart problems
- diabetes
- low potassium level in the blood
- thyroid problems
- phaeochromocytoma (rare tumour of the adrenal gland causing high blood pressure)
- fits or seizures
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Formoterol to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Routine tests (e.g. lung function, potassium and blood sugar levels) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
- Your blood pressure may rise to unsafe levels without you noticing it. Monitor your blood pressure regularly during treatment.
Formoterol may cause any of the following side effects: chest pain, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, and diarrhoea.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- worsened breathing or wheezing after a dose
- rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes
- muscle cramps, muscle pain or weakness, fast and irregular heartbeat
- very bad headache, passing out, change in eyesight
- feeling sleepy, unusual thirst or hunger, passing urine more often, fast breathing or breath that smells like fruit
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- water pill or medicine for water retention e.g. furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide
- medicines used to treat depression
- certain medicines used to treat high blood pressure e.g. atenolol, propranolol
- theophylline (medicine used to treat asthma)
- ephedrine (medicine used to relieve nasal congestion)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Formoterol.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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