Prescription Required
Description
Foradil Inhaler is an Inhaler used to dispense an adrenergic bronchodilator called formoterol fumarate. We carry this product in the brand choice in 12mcg.
Foradil Inhalers are prescribed as a long-term maintenance treatment for symptoms of asthma or ongoing lung disease such as COPD. COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and includes conditions affecting the lungs, such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. A person with COPD or asthma may have difficulties with breathing and have symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. This medication should only be used long-term if other treatments to control your asthma were not successful and should not be used alone to treat asthma.
Foradil Inhalers (formoterol fumarate inhalers) are effective at preventing and decreasing symptoms of lung-related conditions (like COPD and asthma) due to their ability to act on a certain muscle (bronchial smooth muscle) to expand and relax the airways. It begins to work within minutes and has an effective duration of 12 hours.
Directions
It is important to always follow directions given to you by a healthcare professional. Taking this medication incorrectly could cause ineffectiveness or a higher risk of side effects. Instructions from your doctor can be found on your prescription bottle; if not, call your doctor to go over how to properly use this medication.
Do not mix other medications into your inhaler.
Do not open the vile until you are ready to use it. Avoid using the medication if it does not appear clear and colorless in the vial or if the expiry date has passed. Do not stop using this medication until your doctor has directed you to.
- Twist the cap off the vial; squeeze all the medicine into the nebulizer medicine cup.
- Connect the nebulizer to the face mask/mouthpiece; then, connect the nebulizer to the compressor.
- Inhale the medicine; to do this, turn on the compressor once the mouthpiece is in your mouth and breathe in deeply but steadily until no more mist is dispensed.
- This is done until the medicine in the nebulizer cup is gone; about 9 minutes
- Clean the nebulizer; ensure you get all parts of the nebulizer
Cautions
Using too much of this product and/or for too long, you may decrease the effectiveness of the drug. Do not take more or less than directed to by your doctor.
Formoterol may cause QT prolongation, a condition that affects the rhythm of the heart. This risk is increased if you have certain medical conditions or using another medication that shares the risk. Ensure to tell your doctor about certain medical conditions that may raise the risk, such as; heart problems like heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG (heart disease test) or a family history of heart problems like sudden cardiac arrest or QT prolongation in the EKG. The risk of QT prolongation may also become a great risk if you have low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood or if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics).
Other conditions may also pose a risk factor if you use formoterol products. You may need to take extra precaution while using this inhaler or may need a dose adjustment if you have; heart disease, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, seizures, diabetes and more. Before using this product, discuss with your doctor all the medical conditions you have in order to determine if this product is safe and effective for you.
If you are a pregnant or breastfeeding female; only use this medication if your doctor has determined that the benefits outweigh the risk for the baby.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Foradil Inhaler (formoterol fumarate) may include:
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; nervousness, trouble sleeping; headache; dizziness; tremor; tiredness; muscle cramps; or dry mouth.
The above side effects should not alarm you.
Serious side effects of Foradil Inhaler (formoterol fumarate) may include:
tremors, nervousness, chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeats; wheezing, choking, or other breathing problems after using formoterol; or worsening breathing problems;
If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.
Signs to watch for:
High blood sugar--increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor; or
Low potassium level--leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling.
FAQs
When is the best time to use this medication?
If you use this medication to control your breathing during exercise, use the inhaler about 15 minutes before starting your workout. If you use this inhaler to control asthma or another similar condition; use this inhaler at the first warning signs of an approaching attack. Signs that an attack is coming may include coughing, losing your breath, or feeling cranky. This medication is used to prevent attacks so if your asthma attack has already started, you need to use a fast-acting inhaler, such as Ventolin (albuterol).
I have two different inhalers I use; how long should I wait in between inhalers?
You do not need to wait a long time however, you should wait at least 1 -2 minutes in between inhalers.
What should I avoid while using this inhaler?
Avoid using other inhaled bronchodilators that consist of formoterol or other similar medicines like arformoterol, indacaterol, olodaterol, salmeterol, or vilanterol.
What is the average dose for an adult with COPD?
One inhalation of 12mcg every 12 hours is the average dose for an adult with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. You should not exceed 24 mcg a day.
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