Foradil

Generic name: Formoterol

Why is Foradil Aerolizer prescribed?

Foradil relaxes the muscles in the walls of the airways, allowing them to expand. Taken on a twice-daily basis, it helps to control asthma in people who need regular treatment with short-acting inhalers, including people with nighttime asthma. Regular twice-daily use can also relieve tightening of the airways in people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Taken on an as-needed basis, Foradil can also be used to prevent exercise-induced tightening of the airways (also called "exercise-induced asthma") in adults and children 12 years of age and older.

Most important fact about Foradil Aerolizer

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.

How should you 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 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.