AeroBid

Formoterol fumarate, generic

Brand names: Foradil and AeroBid

Formulations:

MDI: 200 puffs per canister, 42 mcg per puff.
DPI: 60 inhalations per canister, 90 mcg per inhalation

A prescription drug called AeroBid is used to stop the symptoms of asthma. It is a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that enhances breathing by calming the muscles surrounding the airways. Both metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and dry powder inhaler (DPI) formulations of AeroBid are available and are typically used in conjunction with an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).

Throat irritation and coughing are the most frequent side effects of AeroBid, which is generally well tolerated. Additionally, some people may tremble and have an elevated heart rate. People with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, or seizures, shouldn't use AeroBid. Women who are expecting or nursing should avoid it as well.

Discuss the possible risks and benefits of AeroBid with your doctor if you're thinking about using it to treat your asthma. Even though AeroBid may not be the best option for everyone, it can be a successful treatment for many asthmatics.

Pharmacokinetics

An example of a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) is AeroBid (formoterol fumarate). The active component of AeroBid is formoterol, which shares structural similarities with other beta2-agonists like albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin).

Formoterol has a short half-life and is quickly absorbed from the lungs into the bloodstream. Formoterol's effects peak within one to three hours, and their duration of action is six to twelve hours. Through metabolism and excretion in the urine, formoterol is removed from the body.

Both dry powder inhaler (DPI) and metered-dose inhaler (MDI) formulations of AeroBid are offered. Formoterol is delivered in the MDI formulation at a rate of 42 mcg per puff and in the DPI formulation at a rate of 90 mcg per inhalation.

Indications

For the treatment of asthmatic bronchospasm, AeroBid has FDA approval. AeroBid is not advised for use as a rescue drug and is typically used in conjunction with an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).

Side Effects

Coughing and sore throats are two of AeroBid's most frequent side effects. Additionally, some people may experience headaches, tremors, and elevated heart rates.

People with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, or seizures, shouldn't use AeroBid. Women who are expecting or nursing should avoid it as well.

Warnings and Precautions

It is crucial to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, since AeroBid can interact with other drugs.

The use of AeroBid to treat your asthma may not be the best option for you, so discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this medication with your doctor.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

It is not advisable for pregnant or nursing women to use AeroBid. If you are pregnant or nursing, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using AeroBid with your doctor.

Dosage

There are two strengths of AeroBid: a DPI that contains 90 mcg of formoterol per inhalation and an MDI that contains 42 mcg of formoterol per puff.

AeroBid's starting dosage is one puff (42 mcg) twice per day. The dosage can be increased to two puffs (84 mcg) twice daily if necessary. Four puffs (168 mcg) of AeroBid are the maximum daily dose.

For the DPI formulation, one or two inhalations (90–180 mcg) twice daily are the suggested starting dose. The dosage can be raised to four inhalations (360 mcg) twice daily if necessary. Eight inhalations (720 mcg) of AeroBid DPI are the maximum daily dose.

Overdose

An AeroBid overdose doesn't have a specific remedy. Call 911 or head to the closest emergency room if you or someone you know has taken an excessive amount of AeroBid.