Perforomist (Formoterol) for COPD

Overview
Perforomist is a prescription drug first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2001 for maintenance of asthma and prevention of bronchospasms in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Perforomist is not indicated for acute attacks. Perforomist may be referred to by its drug name, Formoterol. Formoterol is also marketed under the brand name Foradil.

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

How do I take it?
Perforomist is inhaled orally twice a day. Perforomist should be taken at about the same times each day, usually in the morning and evening, 12 hours apart. The effects of Perforomist last for 12 hours.

Perforomist is prescribed for long-term maintenance of COPD. It comes as an inhalation solution packaged in a vial, and must be taken by nebulizer.

Side effects
If it is used alone, without concomitant use of an inhaled corticosteroid, Perforomist raises the risk of asthma-related death.

Common side effects of Perforomist include hoarse, dry or irritated throat, upset stomach or stomach pain, diarrhea, heartburn, muscle cramps, coughing, blurred vision, nervousness, fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, and shaking in any part of the body.

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

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.