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Formoterol

  • Use this inhaler exactly as you have been directed by your doctor or nurse. Do not exceed the dose prescribed for you.
  • Important: If your breathing gets worse and you do not get relief from your usual dose of inhaler, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

About formoterol

Type of medicine Bronchodilator
Used for Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other lung and airway related problems
Also called Atimos Modulite®; Easyhaler® Formoterol; Foradil®; Oxis®
(Also used in combination with a preventer steroid in Symbicort® Turbohaler)
Available as Aerosol and inhalation powder

Formoterol works by opening up the air passages in the lungs so that air can flow into the lungs more freely. In doing so it helps to relieve symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Before using formoterol

Before using formoterol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you suffer from liver problems.
  • If you suffer from hyperthyroidism (an over active thyroid gland).
  • If you suffer from heart problems.
  • If you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure).
  • If you suffer from diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes).
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
  • If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to use formoterol

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist will show you how to use your inhaler. Use it exactly as directed.
  • Use your inhaler at regular intervals to get the best effects from your medicine. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up.
  • If you have been prescribed Foradil® capsules - do not swallow the capsules, they must only be used with the inhaler.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Do not stop taking formoterol without speaking to your doctor first.
  • If you use a steroid (preventer inhaler) already and have been prescribed formoterol you should continue to use your steroid inhaler as well, even if your symptoms improve.
  • Formoterol may not work quickly enough to relieve an asthma attack that has already started. Your doctor may prescribe another inhaled medicine for you to use if you get an attack. If so, make sure that you keep it with you all the time.
  • Keep your regular doctors appointments so your progress can be monitored.
  • Do not smoke. Smoking causes severe irritation and damage to the lungs. It will make your condition worse and will reduce the beneficial effects of your medication.
  • If your usual dose of formoterol does not provide at least twelve hours relief from asthma symptoms speak with your doctor.
  • If you feel sick or shaky, your dose may be too high. Speak with your doctor as soon as possible.
  • If you have diabetes: Check your blood glucose levels regularly as this preparation can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.

Can formoterol cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Shakiness, trembling This usually improves as you adjust to the treatment. If it continues, speak with your doctor as your dose may need changing
Headache Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain killer. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor
Dizziness Make sure your reactions are normal before driving or operating machinery that could be dangerous if you were not fully alert
Feeling of a fast heart beat, muscle cramps and changes of taste Speak with your doctor if troublesome

Important: If your breathing is getting worse and you are not getting relief from your usual dose of inhaler, contact your doctor immediately.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store formoterol

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer's PIL, Oxis® Turbohaler, AstraZeneca UK Ltd. electronic Medicines Compendium. Revised August 2006, accessed 14 February 2008.
  • British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Foradil®, Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd., electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated July 2006, accessed 14 February 2008.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008 DocID:
3783
DocRef:
dils3788
Last Updated:
9 Apr 2008
Date of Next Review:
9 Apr 2010
Version:
22


















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See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

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