How does Foradil Aerolizer (Eformoterol Fumarate) work:

Foradil Aerolizer is a preventative medication. It is used for the long-term, twice-daily administration in the maintenance treatment of bronchoconstriction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Formoterol stimulates receptors in the lungs called beta 2 receptors, causing the muscles in the airways to relax and open. It starts to work in one to three minutes and lasts for approximately 12 hours.

Dosage & Administration:

The maintenance treatment of asthma in those five years and older when taken on a long-term, twice-daily basis. The acute prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) in those 5 years of age and older when administered on an occasional (as-needed) basis at least 15 minutes before exercise.

Side Effects:

• Increased blood pressure
• Fast and irregular heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Headache
• Tremor
• Nervousness
• Dry mouth
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Low blood potassium
• High blood sugar level
• Trouble sleeping
  

Precautions:

Foradil belongs to a class of medications known as long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonists or LABAs. In patients with asthma, LABAs may increase the chance of asthma-related death. Foradil should only be used as additional therapy for patients not adequately controlled on other asthma controller medications.

Foradil capsules should only be inhaled orally using the Aerolizer inhaler. The capsules should not be swallowed.

Foradil Aerolizer should not be used to treat acute symptoms. Acute symptoms should be treated with fast-acting rescue inhalers. Do not use more than one capsule twice daily. Foradil Aerolizer should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders. Foradil Aerolizer is not a substitute for inhaled or oral corticosteroids and, in the treatment of asthma, they should not be stopped or reduced at the time Foradil Aerolizer is initiated.

Please note: For more information about any other possible risks, please consult your physician or pharmacist and read the information provided with Foradil.