Formoterol, also known aseformoterol, is along-acting β2 agonist (LABA) used as abronchodilator in the management ofasthma andchronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Formoterol has an extended duration of action (up to 12 h) compared to short-acting β2 agonists such assalbutamol (albuterol), which are effective for 4 h to 6 h. Formoterol has a relatively rapid onset of action compared to other LABAs, and is effective within 2-3 minutes.[2] The 2022Global Initiative for Asthma report[3] recommends a combination formoterol/inhaled corticosteroid inhaler as both a preventer and reliever treatment for asthma in adults. In children, a short-acting β2 adrenergic agonist (e.g.,salbutamol) is still recommended.
In November 2005, the USFood and Drug Administration (FDA) released a health advisory alerting the public to findings that show the use of long-acting β2 agonists could lead to a worsening of wheezing symptoms in some patients.[6]
Nowadays, available long-acting β2 agonists includesalmeterol, formoterol,bambuterol, and sustained-release oralsalbutamol.
Combinations of inhaled steroids and long-acting bronchodilators are becoming more widespread – combination preparations includefluticasone/salmeterol andbudesonide/formoterol.
Inhaled formoterol works like otherβ2 agonists, causing bronchodilation by relaxing the smooth muscle in the airway so as to treat the exacerbation of asthma.It has also been reported to targettubulin, favorizing its polymerization.[7]
Inhaler for a powder based inbudesonide and formoterol
Formoterol is marketed in three forms: adry-powder inhaler (DPI), ametered-dose inhaler (MDI) and an inhalation solution, under various brand names including Atock, Atimos/Atimos Modulite, Foradil/Foradile, Fostair, Oxeze/Oxis, Perforomist and Symbicort.
^Anderson GP (1993). "Formoterol: pharmacology, molecular basis of agonism, and mechanism of long duration of a highly potent and selective beta 2-adrenoceptor agonist bronchodilator".Life Sci.52 (26):2145–60.doi:10.1016/0024-3205(93)90729-m.PMID8099696.
^Baksheeva VE, La Rocca R, Allegro D, Derviaux C, Pasquier E, Roche P, et al. (2025). "NanoDSF Screening for Anti-tubulin Agents Uncovers New Structure–Activity Insights".Journal of Medicinal Chemistry.doi:10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5c01008.
