What It Is
Formoterol belongs to a class of medicines called long-acting beta-2 agonists, often abbreviated as LABAs. It is used as an inhaler and is most often combined with an inhaled steroid.
What It's Used For
Formoterol is generally used for long-term control of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In asthma, it is not used alone and is combined with an inhaled corticosteroid such as budesonide. Some combination inhalers can also be used for quick relief of symptoms.
How It Works
Formoterol activates beta-2 receptors in the airway muscles, which relaxes them and widens the airways. It starts working within a few minutes and lasts around 12 hours, combining a fast onset with long-lasting action.
History and Regulatory Status
Formoterol was developed in the 1970s and came into medical use in the 1990s. It is a prescription medicine, available mainly as combination inhalers under various brand names. Guidelines advise against using long-acting beta-2 agonists on their own in asthma because of safety concerns, which is why they are paired with an inhaled steroid.