Brand Name: Foradil
Generic Name: Formoterol (for-MOH-te-role)

Foradil. Common Uses.

This medicine is a beta receptor stimulant used to prevent the symptoms of asthma, or obstructive pulmonary diseases (e.g., chronic bronchitis, or emphysema) in persons 6 years and older. This medicine may also be used to prevent exercise-induced breathing difficulties (e.g., exercise-induced bronchospasm, EIB) and to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor. This medicine is not to be used for an acute asthma attack, nor is it a substitute for inhaled or oral corticosteroids (e.g., beclomethasone, fluticasone, prednisone). In fact, it generally is used in combination with another controller-type asthma medication (such as inhaled corticosteroids).

Foradil. How to Take.

Foradil capsules are intended for use only with the Aerolizer inhaler; they should not be swallowed.

To use the system, place a capsule in the well of the Aerolizer, then press and release the buttons on the side of the device. This will pierce the capsule. The medication is dispersed into the air stream when you inhale rapidly and deeply through the mouthpiece. Do not exhale into the device and do not use a "spacer" with this medication. Detailed instructions are supplied with your prescription. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

One rare occasions, the capsule may break into small pieces, which could reach the throat or mouth during inhalation. You can reduce the chance of breakage by storing the capsules in a dry place, keeping them in their blister pack until just before use, and piercing them only once.

Be sure your hands are dry before handling the capsules, and be careful to keep the Aerolizer dry, too—do not wash any part of the device. Discard the aerolizer when your prescription is finished. Replace it with the new one that comes with each refill.

Foradil. Warning and Precautions.

Before you start using Foradil Aerolizer, tell your healthcare professional if you:

• have heart problems
• have high blood pressure
• have seizures
• have thyroid problems
• have diabetes
• have liver problems
• are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if Foradil may harm your unborn baby.
• are breastfeeding. It is not known if Foradil passes into your milk and if it can harm your baby.

Foradil. Missed Dose.

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.

Foradil. Overdose.

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms of Foradil overdose may include:

Chest pain, dizziness, dry mouth, fast or irregular heartbeat, fatigue, general feeling of illness, headache, heart palpitations, inability to sleep, muscle cramps, nausea, nervousness, seizures, tremor.

Foradil. Storage.

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Leave the capsules in the blister pack until needed for use.

Foradil. Possible Side Effects.

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Foradil.

Side effects may include:

Abdominal pain, allergic reaction, anxiety, back pain, bronchitis, chest infection, chest pain, difficulty breathing, difficulty speaking, dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, fever, headache, high blood sugar, high or low blood pressure, inability to sleep, increased sputum, indigestion, irregular heartbeat, itching, muscle cramps, nausea, nervousness, rash, runny nose, sinusitis, sore throat, stomach upset, tonsillitis, tremor, unwell feeling, upper respiratory and viral infections, worsening of asthma.

More Information about Foradil.

Foradil is used to prevent asthma attacks, and should not be used for the relief of acute asthma symptoms. Your doctor will prescribe a short-acting inhaler such as Proventil or Ventolin to use for acute asthma attacks.

Disclaimer.

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information . It is not containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.