What Is Formoterol Solution Used For?

Formoterol solution is used for treating the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. The medication is a bronchodilator and works by relaxing certain muscles around the airways to allow more air to enter and exit the lungs. Possible off-label formoterol solution uses include treating asthma.

 

What Is Formoterol Solution Used For?

Formoterol solution (Perforomist™) is a prescription medication used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is part of a class of medications known as beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, or beta agonists for short. Formoterol solution is used in a nebulizer, a device that changes liquid medications into fine droplets that are inhaled into the lungs.
 
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease in which the lungs are damaged, making it difficult to breathe. In COPD, the airways (the tubes that carry air into and out of the lungs) are partly obstructed, making it difficult to get air in and out. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two kinds of COPD. While smoking is the most common cause of COPD, there are other possible causes of COPD. Common COPD symptoms may include:
 
  • Sputum (mucus) production
  • Shortness of breath, especially with exercise
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe)
  • Chest tightness.
     
Depending on the severity of your COPD, your healthcare provider may recommend a number of medications as part of your COPD treatment, including:
 
  • Bronchodilators
  • Steroids (such as inhaled steroids)
  • A flu shot
  • Pneumococcal vaccine.
     
Lifestyle changes are also recommended (see Living With COPD and COPD Rehabilitation). Formoterol solution is a bronchodilator, which means that it helps to open up the airways.
 
(What Is Formoterol Solution Used For? Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;