Formoterol is a bronchodilator which can relax the muscles of the airways. Compared to Salbutamol, Formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator and can open up the airways in the lungs for a longer time, hence making breathing easier. It is often used together with an inhaled corticosteroid such as Budesonide to control asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Formoterol is used as an inhaler. The usual adult dose used for controlling asthma and COPD is 6-24 mcg once or twice daily. The detailed dosages for different combination inhalers are listed as follows:
Duaklir: 1 inhalation twice daily
Flutiform: 2 inhalations twice daily in the morning and evening
Foster:
For asthma: 1-2 inhalations twice daily
For COPD: 2 inhalations twice daily in the morning and evening
Symbicort Turbuhaler: 1-2 inhalations twice daily
Vannair: 2 inhalations twice daily
People who are allergic or sensitive to Formoterol or any formulation component.
You should use Formoterol together with an inhaled corticosteroid.
Common dosing schedule:
Formoterol when combined with Budesonide (Symbicort) can be used as a reliever on an as-needed basis. Other inhalers with Formoterol are taken on a regular schedule rather than on an as-needed basis.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Formoterol may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Formoterol is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Formoterol in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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