Formoterol is a long-acting beta2-adrenergic receptor agonist (beta2-agonist) that
works in the lungs as a bronchodilator. Its action has a rapid onset
and its effects are maintained for at least 12 hours.
It becomes effective after binding to correspondent receptors, called beta-adrenoceptors, and activating them by stimulating the adenyl
cyclase, an enzyme found inside the cells of the lung muscles and is
involved in the synthesis of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). When
cAMP levels are elevated, the muscle cells of the airways become
relaxed, leading to bronchodilation.
There are three types of beta-adrenoceptors in three different types of cells: the muscle cells of the airways, the heart, and the adipose
(fat) tissue cells. This means that formoterol may have functions in
other cells, but its precise function is not known.
Studies of formoterol
The effectiveness of formoterol in the treatment of COPD has been shown in various clinical studies, whether as a pressurized metered dose
inhaler or a dry powder inhaleMost studies show that formoterol has
proven efficacy, safety, and tolerability profiles in people with COPD.
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute and the World Health Organization collaborated on the Global Initiative for COPD – GOLD, and
according to this initiative, long-acting bronchodilators are of primary
importance to manage COPD symptoms, are used on an as-need or regular
basis to reduce or prevent symptoms, and are convenient and
effective.Most studies evaluating formoterol for the treatment of COPD
attribute its success to its rapid action and selective activity toward
the beta2-adrenergic receptors. Formoterol can work as rapidly as five
minutes, and its effects are maintained for up to 12 hours.
Studies have also shown that formoterol controls symptoms better than ipratropium and is more effective than theophylline in reducing
exacerbations and increasing the number of days without rescue
medication, and with a better tolerance.
Indications and side effects
Formoterol is not intended to be used to treat asthma. People with asthma who take LABA medicines such as formoterol have an increased risk
of death due to severe asthma problems.Formoterol won’t cure COPD but
it will help relieve symptoms of the condition. It also doesn’t relieve
sudden breathing difficulties. For an attack that has already started,
short-acting bronchodilators such as albuterol, levalbuterol,
ipratroprium or the combination albuterol/ipratropium can be used if
prescribed by your doctor.
Formoterol side effects can include flu-like symptoms, headache, sore throat, dry throat, cough, runny nose, chills, fever, loss of
voice, muscle cramps, or swollen glands in the neck. See your doctor if
these occur.
