Foradil Aerolizer

Generic name: Formoterol fumarate

What is Foradil Aerolizer?

Foradil Aerolizer consists of Foradil capsules and an Aerolizer inhaler. Foradil Aerolizer is a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA) used for asthma, exercise-induced bronchospasm, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Foradil Aerolizer helps control asthma in people who need regular treatment with short-acting inhalers. Foradil Aerolizer is also used to relieve tightening of the airways in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Taken on an as-needed basis, Foradil Aerolizer can also be used to prevent exercise-induced tightening of the airways.

What is the most important information I should know about Foradil Aerolizer?

Foradil Aerolizer is used to prevent asthma attacks. Do not use Foradil Aerolizer for the relief of acute asthma symptoms. Your doctor will prescribe a short-acting inhaler such as albuterol to use for acute asthma attacks.

Foradil Aerolizer may increase the risk of asthma-related death. It should only be used as additional therapy if you are not adequately controlled on other asthma-controlling medications or if your disease is severe enough to require treatment with two medications.

You should never swallow Foradil capsules. Foradil capsules are only to be used with the Aerolizer inhaler that comes with Foradil Aerolizer. Never place a capsule in the mouthpiece of the Aerolizer inhaler.

Foradil Aerolizer should not be used as a substitute for oral or inhaled corticosteroids.

Who should not take Foradil Aerolizer?

Do not take Foradil Aerolizer if you are sensitive to any component of the medication, including lactose (milk sugar) or milk protein.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Foradil Aerolizer?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Foradil. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if your asthma is significantly worsening, or if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, an abnormal heart rhythm, a seizure disorder, thyroid disease, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Foradil Aerolizer comes as a powder-filled capsule to inhale by mouth using a special inhaler. See "How Should I Take This Medication" below.

Asthma

Adults and children 5 years of age and older: For the long-term control of asthma, the recommended dosage is 1 capsule every 12 hours. Do not use more than 2 capsules per day.

Prevention of Exercise-Induced Asthma

Adults and children 5 years of age and older: The recommended dosage is 1 capsule at least 15 minutes before exercise. If a second dose is needed the same day, take it at least 12 hours after the first dose. Do not use more than 2 capsules per day. If you are already taking Foradil Aerolizer on a regular twice-daily basis, do not take an extra dose before exercise.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Adults: The usual dosage is 1 capsule every 12 hours. Do not use more than 2 capsules a day. If your usual dosage does not provide relief, check with your doctor. Other treatments may have to be added to your regimen.

How should I take Foradil Aerolizer?

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 released into the air stream when you breathe in rapidly and deeply through the mouthpiece. Do not exhale into the device or use a spacer with this medication. Detailed instructions are supplied with your prescription. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

On rare occasions, the capsule may break into small pieces that can reach the throat or mouth during inhalation. A screen built into the inhaler should prevent any capsule pieces from being inhaled. To reduce the chance of the capsules breaking, store them in a dry place and keep them in their blister pack until just before use. Pierce the capsule only once.

Be sure your hands are dry before handling the capsules and be careful to keep the Aerolizer dry. Do not wash any part of the device. Throw away the Aerolizer when your prescription is finished and replace it with the new one provided with each refill.

After use, open the inhaler and remove and throw away the empty capsule.

What should I avoid while taking Foradil Aerolizer?

Do not use Foradil Aerolizer with a spacer and never exhale into the Foradil Aerolizer device.

Never take the Aerolizer inhaler apart.

Never place a Foradil capsule directly into the mouthpiece of the Aerolizer inhaler. Never leave a used Foradil capsule in the Aerolizer inhaler chamber.

Always use the new Aerolizer inhaler that comes with your next refill. Do not use the Aerolizer inhaler from your last refill.

Avoid exposing Foradil capsules to moisture.

Avoid situations that may trigger an asthma attack.

Do not use Foradil Aerolizer more often than prescribed. Excessive use can cause heart irregularities. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain, palpitations, rapid heart rate, or tremor.

Do not use Foradil with other long-acting beta-agonists such as salmeterol.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Foradil Aerolizer?

If Foradil Aerolizer is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Foradil Aerolizer with the following: antibiotics such as clarithromycin and erythromycin, antidepressants categorized as tricyclics (such as amitriptyline and imipramine), antidepressants categorized as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine), antifungals (such as fluconazole, itraconazole, and ketoconazole), beta-blockers used to control high blood pressure (such as atenolol and metoprolol), xanthine derivatives (such as theophylline), steroids (such as hydrocortisone and prednisone), and water pills (diuretics) such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide.

What are the possible side effects of Foradil Aerolizer?

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

Side effects may include: anxiety, bronchitis, chest infection, chest pain, difficulty breathing, difficulty falling or staying asleep, difficulty speaking, dizziness, dry mouth, fever, inflammation of the tonsils or sinuses, itchiness, rash, tremor, upper respiratory tract infection, viral infection, worsening of asthma, fast and irregular heart beat, headache, nervousness, muscle cramps, nausea, tiredness, low blood potassium, high blood acid

Can I receive Foradil Aerolizer if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Foradil Aerolizer during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Foradil Aerolizer is recommended only if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk. Use Foradil Aerolizer with caution if you are nursing. It is not known whether Foradil Aerolizer appears in breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Foradil Aerolizer?

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. Never take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Foradil Aerolizer?

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Leave the capsules in the blister pack until needed for use. Always throw out the Aerolizer by the "Use by" date.