Brovana (Arformoterol) for COPD

Overview

Brovana is a prescription drug first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for long-term maintenance of bronchoconstriction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Brovana is not indicated for acute attacks. Brovana is also known by its drug name, Arformoterol.

Brovana is a bronchodilator, a drug that dilates the bronchi and bronchioles in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. Brovana is believed to work by relaxing smooth muscles in the airways. Brovana is considered a long-acting bronchodilator.

How do I take it?
Brovana is inhaled orally twice a day. Brovana comes as an inhalation solution packaged in a vial and must be taken by nebulizer.

Side effects
Common side effects of Brovana include leg cramps, sinusitis, diarrhea, rash, chest pain, back pain, shakiness, dry mouth, insomnia, and shortness of breath. Brovana may also cause blood pressure changes.

Inform your doctor if you experience chest tightness or pain, seizures, rapid weight gain, muscle tightening, fainting, lightheadedness, skin rash, fast heart rate (tachycardia), or worsening asthma symptoms while taking Brovana.

Many drugs can cause allergic reactions which, in the most serious cases, can result in death. Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing or swelling in the face, throat, eyes, lips or tongue.

Links

COPD Treatments and Drugs – Mayo Clinic
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/c...

Arformoterol Oral Inhalation – MedlinePlus
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/med...

Brovana – RxList
http://www.rxlist.com/brovana-side-effects-drug...

Brovana (arformoterol tartrate) – CenterWatch
https://www.centerwatch.com/drug-information/fd...