Formoterol Fumarate

Dosage Forms Available

• Formoterol Fumarate is available for use via inhalation in the form of a dry powder.

• This medicine is typically administered using a specially designed inhaler device, which allows the medicine to be breathed directly into the lungs.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Formoterol Fumarate is generally suitable for adults and children aged 5 years and above.

• It is not recommended for use in children under 5 years of age due to lack of safety and efficacy data.

Contraindications

• Formoterol Fumarate is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the active substance or any of the excipients.

• It should not be used as a monotherapy for asthma management due to the risk of serious asthma-related events.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Formoterol Fumarate may interact with beta-blockers (such as metoprolol and propranolol), diuretics (such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (such as phenelzine and isocarboxazid), and tricyclic antidepressants (like amitriptyline and nortriptyline).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Formoterol Fumarate may lead to symptoms such as tremors, headache, palpitations, or muscle cramps. If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.

• If you forget to take your dose of Formoterol Fumarate, inhale it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For common side effects like headache or throat irritation, try drinking plenty of water and resting.

• If you experience muscle cramps, stretching and massaging the affected area may help.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Formoterol Fumarate can cause side effects such as dizziness or blurred vision which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they subside.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of Formoterol Fumarate during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the possible risks to the unborn baby.

• It is not known whether Formoterol Fumarate is excreted in human milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution is advised when using Formoterol Fumarate in patients with cardiovascular disorders, convulsive disorders, thyrotoxicosis, and diabetes mellitus due to the increased risk of adverse effects.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• For individuals with asthma or COPD, it is important to avoid triggers that could worsen symptoms. This may include tobacco smoke, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and certain foods or medicines.

• Regular physical activity can help improve lung function. However, always warm up before exercising and cool down afterwards to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm.

• It is beneficial to maintain a healthy weight as obesity can worsen symptoms of asthma or COPD.