Foracort Inhaler is a combination bronchodilator and corticosteroid medication designed for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It contains two active ingredients, Formoterol and Budesonide, which work synergistically to reduce airway inflammation and prevent bronchoconstriction. This inhaler is prescribed for regular use to achieve long-term control of respiratory symptoms, improve lung function, and enhance overall quality of life. It is not intended for the relief of acute bronchospasm. Always use this medication under the strict supervision of a healthcare professional.

Features

• Active Ingredients: Formoterol Fumarate (6 mcg) and Budesonide (100 mcg, 200 mcg, or 400 mcg per actuation).
• Mechanism: Combination of a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA) and an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).
• Delivery System: Metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with a precise dose counter.
• Indications: Maintenance treatment of asthma in patients requiring both ICS and LABA; symptomatic treatment of COPD with reversible airflow obstruction.
• Administration: Oral inhalation route.
• Dosage Forms: Available in multiple strength combinations to allow for individualized dosing regimens.

Benefits

• Provides dual-action therapy by simultaneously reducing inflammation and relaxing airway muscles.
• Significantly decreases the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations and COPD flare-ups.
• Improves lung function parameters, such as FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second), over time.
• Enhances overall exercise tolerance and daily activity levels by ensuring better breath control.
• Reduces reliance on short-acting rescue inhalers for symptom relief when used consistently.
• Helps achieve long-term disease control, leading to fewer hospitalizations and emergency room visits.

Common use

Foracort Inhaler is commonly used for the long-term management and control of persistent asthma in patients whose condition is not adequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids alone or who require both an ICS and a LABA. It is also indicated for the symptomatic treatment of patients with COPD (including chronic bronchitis and emphysema) characterized by a history of exacerbations and significant airflow limitation. It is essential for patients to understand that this is a maintenance medication and must be used regularly, even when asymptomatic, to derive maximum therapeutic benefit. It does not provide immediate relief during an acute attack.

Dosage and direction

The dosage of Foracort Inhaler must be individualized based on disease severity, previous therapy, and patient response. It is critical to follow the prescribing physician’s instructions exactly.

• For Asthma: The usual recommended dose for adults and adolescents (12 years and older) is 1 or 2 inhalations twice daily. The strength (100/6, 200/6, or 400/6) will be determined by the physician. The maximum recommended dose is 4 inhalations twice daily of the 400/6 strength.
• For COPD: The usual recommended dose is 2 inhalations twice daily of the 200/6 or 400/6 strength.
• Administration Technique: Shake the inhaler well before each use. Exhale fully, place the mouthpiece between your lips, and inhale deeply and steadily while pressing down firmly on the canister. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then exhale slowly. Wait at least 30-60 seconds before taking a second inhalation, if prescribed.
• Rinsing: After each use, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to help prevent oral thrush (candidiasis) and hoarseness.

Do not change your dose or stop using this inhaler without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well.

Precautions

• Medical History: Inform your doctor of your complete medical history, especially of any heart problems (e.g., irregular heartbeat, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure), seizures, thyroid disorders, diabetes, liver disease, osteoporosis, or eye problems such as glaucoma or cataracts.
• Infections: This medication may weaken your immune system. Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Report any signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, body aches) to your doctor promptly.
• Systemic Effects: Long-term use of high doses of inhaled corticosteroids may lead to systemic effects such reduced bone mineral density, adrenal suppression, growth retardation in children and adolescents, and ocular effects (cataracts, glaucoma).
• Paradoxical Bronchospasm: Foracort Inhaler can sometimes cause immediate bronchospasm after inhalation, with wheezing and shortness of breath. If this occurs, discontinue use immediately and seek alternative therapy.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should only be considered if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or infant. Consult your doctor.
• Pediatric Use: The safety and efficacy in children under 12 years of age have not been established.

Contraindications

Foracort Inhaler is contraindicated in patients with:

• A known hypersensitivity to Formoterol, Budesonide, or any other component of the formulation.
• Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required.
• Significant cardiovascular disorders where a sympathomimetic amine would be inappropriate (e.g., tachyarrhythmias).

Possible side effect

Like all medicines, Foracort Inhaler can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Very Common (≥1/10):

• Headache
• Oropharyngeal candidiasis (oral thrush)
• Hoarseness or dysphonia

Common (≥1/100 to <1/10):

• Palpitations
• Tremor
• Nervousness
• Cough
• Throat irritation
• Nausea
• Muscle cramps

Uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100):

• Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
• Dizziness
• Sleep disturbances
• Skin rash, urticaria
• Bruising
• Hypersensitivity reactions

Rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000):

• Angina pectoris
• Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia)
• Hyperglycemia
• Cushing’s syndrome
• Depression, behavioral changes
• Paradoxical bronchospasm

Very Rare (<1/10,000):

• Anaphylactic reactions
• Psychiatric effects including agitation, aggression

Report any persistent or severe side effects to your doctor immediately.

Drug interaction

Inform your doctor about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products.

• Beta-blockers: Non-cardioselective beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) may antagonize the effects of Formoterol and may produce severe bronchospasm in asthmatic patients.
• Diuretics: Co-administration with non-potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide) may potentiate the possible hypokalemic effect of beta2-agonists.
• QT-prolonging drugs: Concomitant use with other drugs known to prolong the QT interval (e.g., certain antibiotics, antifungals, antipsychotics) may increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Potent inhibitors of the CYP3A4 enzyme (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir, clarithromycin) may increase systemic exposure to Budesonide, increasing the risk of systemic corticosteroid side effects.
• Other Sympathomimetics: Concurrent use with other sympathomimetic medicinal products may potentiate the sympathetic effects of Formoterol.
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) and Tricyclic Antidepressants: These may potentiate the cardiovascular effects of beta2-agonists.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose of your Foracort Inhaler, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining a consistent schedule is important for controlling your symptoms.

Overdose

Overdosage may manifest as exaggeration of the known pharmacologic effects of its components.

• Formoterol Overdose: Symptoms may include tachycardia, arrhythmias, tremor, headache, muscle cramps, dry mouth, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, malaise, hypokalemia, hyperglycemia, and metabolic acidosis. Cardiac arrest and death are possible.
• Budesonide Overdose: Acute overdose is unlikely, but chronic overdosage may lead to systemic corticosteroid effects such as hypercorticism and adrenal suppression.

There is no specific antidote. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Cardiac monitoring is recommended in cases of significant overdose. In the event of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center.

Storage

• Store at room temperature (15°C to 30°C). Do not freeze.
• Keep the canister away from direct sunlight, heat, and open flame. Do not puncture or incinerate, even when empty.
• Keep the inhaler with the mouthpiece down.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• The inhaler has a dose counter. Do not use the inhaler after the counter reads “0”, as you will not get the correct amount of medicine. Discard appropriately.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The product information provided may not be exhaustive or up-to-date.

Reviews

“Switching to Foracort Inhaler changed my life. My nighttime symptoms and reliance on my rescue inhaler have reduced dramatically. It took a few weeks to feel the full effect, but the consistency is worth it.” - Sarah T., diagnosed with moderate persistent asthma.

“As a COPD patient for over a decade, Foracort has provided the most stable control I’ve experienced. My breathing tests have improved, and I’ve had no major exacerbations since starting it two years ago. The dosage counter is very helpful.” - James L.

“Effective for control, but I did develop a mild case of oral thrush initially. My doctor reminded me to rinse my mouth thoroughly after each use, and it hasn’t been a problem since. A small price to pay for being able to breathe properly.” - Maria G.