Formoterol: What it is and how to use it

Formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator used to help keep airways open in asthma and COPD. It starts working faster than some other long-acting options, so it helps with breathing over hours while also giving quicker relief than older LABAs. That makes it useful in maintenance therapy and, in some cases, as part of combined inhalers your doctor prescribes.

How formoterol works and when it's used

Formoterol relaxes the muscles around your airways, making it easier to breathe. Doctors usually prescribe it as an inhaler, often combined with an inhaled steroid. Never start or stop it without talking to your provider: in asthma, long-acting beta-agonists should be paired with an inhaled steroid rather than used alone. Some treatment plans use a steroid/formoterol combo for both daily control and quick relief—ask your clinician if that approach fits you.

People with COPD also use formoterol to reduce breathlessness and flare-ups. It's not for sudden, severe asthma attacks at home—you still need a short-acting rescue inhaler like salbutamol (albuterol) unless your doctor gives a different plan.

Safety tips, side effects, and practical advice

Common side effects include tremor, fast heartbeat, headache, and sometimes throat irritation. Most are mild; if you get chest pain, severe dizziness, or worsening breathing, stop and seek medical care. Also tell your doctor about other medicines you take—beta blockers, certain antidepressants, and some diuretics can interact with formoterol.

Use your inhaler the right way. Shake metered-dose inhalers, inhale slowly and deeply when you press the canister, and hold your breath a few seconds afterward. For dry-powder inhalers, breathe in fast and hard. If you struggle with technique, ask for a spacer or a quick demo at the pharmacy—proper use makes a big difference.

For inhalers that contain steroids, rinse your mouth after use to lower the risk of throat irritation or oral thrush. Store your inhaler out of direct heat and check the expiry date. Keep a written action plan from your clinician so you know what to do during flare-ups and when to seek help.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Tell your provider—many need treatment for asthma during pregnancy, and the benefit of control often outweighs risks, but decisions should be individualized. Also, if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or thyroid problems, mention this—your doctor may monitor you more closely.

Final practical note: don’t switch brands or stop combinations on your own. If you feel your control is slipping, track symptoms and peak flow (if advised), and call your healthcare team. With correct use and follow-up, formoterol can be a reliable part of keeping your breathing steady.