Foradil Inhaler (Formoterol Fumarate)

Do's

• Use the inhaler device provided with Foradil capsules. Don't swallow the capsules.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for dosage, frequency, and inhalation techniques.
• Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling the capsules.
• Inhale rapidly and deeply through the mouthpiece when using the inhaler.
• Check if the capsule is empty after inhalation. If not, repeat the inhalation with the same capsule.
• Use Foradil at least 15 minutes before exercise to prevent exercise-induced breathing problems.
• Wait at least 1 minute between using Foradil and other inhalers.
• Learn about your controller and quick-relief inhalers. Understand when to use each.
• Consult your healthcare provider if your breathing problems worsen, your cough increases or your quick-relief inhaler seems less effective.

Don'ts

• Don't use a spacer device with Foradil.
• Don't exhale into the inhaler.
• Don't use more Foradil than prescribed.
• Don't stop or change the dose of other asthma medications without your healthcare provider's advice.
• Don't use short-acting bronchodilators regularly while using Foradil (if previously prescribed regularly).

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness
• Nervousness
• Tremors
• Sleep problems (insomnia)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle cramps

Serious Side Effects:

• Signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Wheezing, choking, or other breathing problems after using the medicine
• Chest pain, pounding heartbeats, or fluttering in the chest
• Worsening breathing problems
• High blood sugar: increased thirst or urination, hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, dry skin, blurred vision, weight loss
• Low potassium: leg cramps, constipation, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, or a limp feeling

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Foradil inhaler,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider about any allergies you have to formoterol, similar medications, sympathomimetic drugs, or any other ingredients in the inhaler.

Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially concerning heart problems (irregular heartbeat, angina), high blood pressure, thyroid issues, seizures, diabetes, metabolic problems, artery swelling (aneurysm), or a specific adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma).

Foradil Inhaler may cause a heart rhythm condition (QT prolongation). This can be serious and requires immediate medical attention.

The risk of QT prolongation increases with certain medical conditions or medications. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take and if you have any heart problems or a family history of certain heart issues.

Low potassium or magnesium levels can also increase the risk of QT prolongation. Let your healthcare provider know if you take medications (diuretics) or have conditions that can cause these electrolyte imbalances.

This medication may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you. Limit alcohol and marijuana use which can worsen dizziness.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take before any surgery or 

procedures.

Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects, especially QT prolongation.

Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before using Foradil Inhaler during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Foradil Inhaler is not for the initial treatment of asthma and should only be used when other medications haven't controlled symptoms.

Learn how to use the inhaler properly to avoid serious asthma-related problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your healthcare provider.

Once asthma symptoms are controlled, your healthcare provider might switch you to other medications to manage your condition.