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Formoterol - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Formoterol

Generic Name : Formoterol
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Formoterol are provided here.

Pronunciation : for-MOE-ter-ol

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Formoterol, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y55.6 Therapeutic Classification : Anti- Asthmatics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Formoterol

India :

International :


Foradil

Why is Formoterol Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a long-acting bronchodilator, prescribed for asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD).  It widens air passage and helps in easy breathing.

When should Formoterol not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Formoterol?

Adult: PO- Acute bronchospasm; Reversible airways obstruction- 80 mcg twice daily.
Inhalation- Acute bronchospasm; Reversible airways obstruction- as inhalation cap: 12 mcg twice daily, up to 24 mcg twice daily in severe cases. As dry powder inhaler: 6 or 12 mcg 1-2 times/day, up to 24 mcg twice daily in sever cases. As metered doses from aerosol inhaler: 12 or 24 mcg twice daily. As nebuliser: 20 mcg twice daily.
Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm 6 or 12 mcg at least 15 minutes before exercise. Additional doses may be given 12 hour later.

How should Formoterol be taken?

It comes as a powder-filled capsule to inhale by mouth using a special inhaler.

What are the warnings and precautions for Formoterol?

Caution should be exercised in patients with history of irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, epilepsy, diabetes, any allergy, aneurism and pheochromocytoma, who are taking other medications especially other asthma medicines, heart or thyroid disease, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

Patient may develop with increased risk of serious heart problems and asthma-related death; if it so consult with your doctor.

• Do not use more than recommended dose.

• If there is no improvement in patient's condition, consult with your doctor.

What are the side effects of Formoterol?

Central Nervous System- Dizziness, tremor, sleeplessness, shakiness and headache.
Gastrointestinal- Nausea, stomach upset, inflammation of tonsil, dry mouth and stomach upset.
Skin- Rash and itching.
Heart- Chest infection.
Respiratory- Difficulty in breathing, inflammation of pharynx/sinus and upper respiratory tract infection.
ENT- Impairment of voice.
Musculoskeletal- Muscle/leg cramps.
Hypersensitivity- Hives, angioedema, and bronchospasm.

What are the other precautions for Formoterol?

Monitor blood sugar level regularly while taking this medication.
Avoid alcohol consumption.

What are the storage conditions for Formoterol?

Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Keep away from children.
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