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: Budesonide, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid that reduces swelling and irritation in the airways, and Formoterol, a long-acting beta2-agonist that relaxes the muscles around the bronchial tubes. This dual mechanism provides both immediate symptom relief and long-term control of respiratory conditions, helping to prevent exacerbations and improve lung function. It is intended for regular use as prescribed and is not meant for acute asthma attacks.

Features

• Contains Budesonide (inhaled corticosteroid) and Formoterol (long-acting beta2-agonist)
• Available in multiple strengths (e.g., 100/6 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/6 mcg per puff)
• Delivered via a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI)
• Designed for twice-daily maintenance therapy
• Comes with a dose counter to track remaining medication
• Requires prescription; not for rescue use

Benefits

• Provides dual-action therapy combining anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects
• Reduces frequency and severity of asthma and COPD exacerbations
• Improves overall lung function and exercise tolerance
• Helps achieve long-term control of respiratory symptoms
• Enhances quality of life by enabling better daily activity management
• Minimizes the need for oral corticosteroids and rescue inhalers

Common use

Foracort Inhaler is commonly prescribed for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients who require both inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators. It is also indicated for symptomatic treatment of patients with severe COPD (FEV1 < 50% predicted normal) and a history of repeated exacerbations, who have significant symptoms despite regular bronchodilator therapy.

Dosage and direction

The dosage must be individualized based on disease severity and patient response. For asthma, the usual recommended dose for adults and adolescents (12 years and older) is 1–2 inhalations twice daily. For COPD, the typical dose is 2 inhalations twice daily. It is important to shake the inhaler well before each use and to rinse the mouth with water after inhalation to reduce the risk of oral candidiasis. Patients should be instructed on proper inhaler technique to ensure optimal drug delivery.

Precautions

• Not to be used for the relief of acute bronchospasm; a fast-acting rescue inhaler should be used instead.
• Caution is advised in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary artery disease, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension.
• May cause systemic corticosteroid effects such as adrenal suppression with high doses over prolonged periods.
• Monitor patients for signs of pneumonia, particularly those with COPD.
• Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may increase blood glucose levels.
• Osteoporosis may occur with long-term use; consider bone density monitoring in high-risk patients.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Budesonide, Formoterol, or any component of the formulation.
• Not recommended for primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Tremor
• Palpitations
• Throat irritation
• Hoarseness
• Oral candidiasis (thrush)
• Cough
• Nausea

Less common but serious side effects may include:

• Tachycardia
• Chest pain
• Increased blood pressure
• Paradoxical bronchospasm
• Signs of adrenal insufficiency (e.g., fatigue, weakness, nausea, hypotension)
• Allergic reactions (rash, urticaria, bronchospasm)
• Hypokalemia

Drug interaction

• Concomitant use with other beta-adrenergic agents may potentiate sympathetic effects.
• Ketoconazole, itraconazole, and other CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase Budesonide plasma concentrations.
• MAO inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants may potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Formoterol.
• Diuretics and xanthine derivatives may increase the risk of hypokalemia.
• Beta-blockers may antagonize the effects of Formoterol and produce severe bronchospasm in asthmatic patients.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Overdose may lead to excessive beta-adrenergic stimulation and/or systemic corticosteroid effects. Symptoms may include angina, hypertension, hypokalemia, seizures, and muscle cramps. Treatment is supportive and may include discontinuation of the drug, cardiac monitoring, and correction of electrolyte abnormalities. There is no specific antidote.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C). Do not freeze. Keep the canister away from direct heat or sunlight. Do not puncture or incinerate, even after use. Keep out of reach of children.

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. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

(Note: Simulated summary based on typical clinical feedback)
Patients and healthcare providers often report significant improvement in symptom control and quality of life with regular use of Foracort Inhaler. Many users note a reduction in the frequency of exacerbations and decreased reliance on rescue medication. Some users mention initial side effects such as mild tremors or throat irritation, which often subside with continued use. Proper inhaler technique and consistent use are frequently emphasized as key to achieving optimal results.