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LABA·Respiratory - Asthma & COPD
Asthma maintenance and reliever (when combined with ICS), COPD maintenance
Max Dose
48 mcg/day
Onset
1-3 mins
Asthma Mono
CONTRAIND.
Tremor
RISK
Overview
Long-Acting Beta-2 Agonist (LABA) with a uniquely *fast* onset. Used as both maintenance and reliever therapy in asthma (MART regimen).
Maximum Dose
Max 48 mcg/day (up to 72 mcg/day briefly under specialist direction in acute exacerbation).
Clinical Focus
Never prescribe a LABA as monotherapy in asthma (black box warning for asthma-related death). MUST be combined with an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).
Bottom Line
Formoterol is a fast-onset LABA uniquely suitable for both maintenance and reliever therapy (MART with ICS), but must never be used without an ICS due to increased asthma mortality risk.
Brand Names
Oxis, Foradile, Symbicort (with Budesonide)
Oral Routes
Dry powder inhalers, typically 6 mcg or 12 mcg per dose.
Prescribing & PBS
Authority Required (PBS).
Primary
Asthma maintenance and reliever (when combined with ICS), COPD maintenance.
Clinical Place
Because it works as fast as salbutamol but lasts 12 hours, it is the only LABA approved for 'Maintenance And Reliever Therapy' (MART).