Formoterol
Formoterol is a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) used as a maintenance bronchodilator for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by relaxing smooth muscles in the airways, opening breathing passages for easier airflow. It is typically used in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid for asthma management and should not be used for acute symptom relief.
Formoterol is an inhaled long-acting bronchodilator used for maintenance treatment of asthma and COPD.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- R03AC13
- RxNorm
- 25255
- Generic
- Formoterol
- Class
- atc-r03
- Brands
- Dulera, Bevespi, Duaklir, Breztri, Breyna, Symbicort, Perforomist
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- inhaler, powder, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 12 mcg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 12 mcg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 12 mcg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid unless benefits outweigh risks
use only if clearly needed for asthma control and benefits outweigh potential risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimestercontinue only if needed
may continue use if previously established on therapy for asthma control
monitor maternal and fetal well-being
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedinguse with caution
use only if benefits outweigh risks; consider infant exposure
monitor infant for signs of bronchodilation or tachycardia
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderly 65 plusno specific adjustment; start low
can be used at standard doses; consider comorbidities and concomitant medications
monitor cardiovascular status and bronchial response
pediatric_age
children 5 12 yearsage-appropriate dosing
approved in combination products for children 5 years and older; monotherapy not recommended as first-line
monitor growth velocity and bronchial response
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno dose adjustment needed
can be used at standard doses in mild to moderate renal impairment
routine monitoring
renal_impairment
severeuse with caution
use at standard doses; limited data available for severe impairment
monitor respiratory response
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno specific adjustment recommended
use with caution; monitor response
monitor hepatic function and therapeutic response
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
First FDA approval for Formoterol-containing products
Drug class
ATC Classification R03AC13
Common uses
Long-acting bronchodilator for respiratory conditions
Available formulations
Multiple delivery methods for bronchodilation
Formoterol is indicated for maintenance treatment of asthma, prevention of bronchospasm in COPD (including chronic bronchitis and emphysema), and exercise-induced bronchospasm prevention. It is not indicated for acute bronchospasm relief.
Formoterol is a selective beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. When inhaled, it stimulates beta-2 receptors in bronchial smooth muscle, causing relaxation and bronchodilation. It has over 200-fold greater selectivity for beta-2 receptors compared to beta-1 receptors, minimizing cardiac effects.
Should not be used as monotherapy for asthma—must be combined with an inhaled corticosteroid. Not for acute symptom relief; patients should have a short-acting beta-agonist available for emergencies. May cause tremor, tachycardia, or hypokalemia. Typically dosed twice daily via inhalation device.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy