Anyone who has ever suffered from shortness of breath knows how difficult it is to live with it. Especially when living with a long-term respiratory condition like COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), it can sometimes be so bad that even the smallest tasks cannot be done. So, doctors prescribe various medications to control such conditions. Today, we are going to talk about one such drug, namely Arformoterol.
Simply put, what is this medicine called Arformoterol?
Arformoterol is a medication used to treat COPD . It works by widening the airways in your lungs, reducing congestion, and making it easier to breathe. It works like opening a blocked airway.
However, the important thing here is that this is for long-term control of the disease, not for use in the event of a sudden COPD flare-up. For such an emergency, a separate, fast-acting 'rescue inhaler' is used. Your doctor will explain this to you.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before prescribing Arformoterol to you, your doctor will need to know your complete health history. Be sure to tell them about any of the conditions below.
| Health conditions to inform your doctor about | |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | Conditions of elevated blood sugar levels. |
| Heart disease | Any type of heart disease or heart rhythm disorder. |
| High blood pressure | If you are being treated for high blood pressure. |
| Thyroid disease | Thyroid hormone level problems. |
| Other medical conditions | Conditions such as pheochromocytoma or seizures. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy to arformoterol or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
This medicine comes as a liquid. It is used through a machine called a nebulizer . This machine turns the liquid medicine into a fine mist (aerosol) that you can breathe in. When you inhale this mist through your mouth or through your mouth and nose, it goes directly into your lungs.
A few things to remember:
- Do not mix with other medications: Do not mix any other medications with Arformoterol liquid in the nebulizer.
- Take only the prescribed dose: Use only the amount and frequency prescribed by your doctor. Never use more than the prescribed dose.
- Read the instruction leaflet: Always read the instruction leaflet (MedGuide) that comes with your medicine carefully. If you are not sure how to use it, ask your doctor for more information.
- Not suitable for children: This medicine is not approved for use in children.
What do you do if you miss a medication appointment?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This is an emergency, do not delay.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, as well as vitamins, herbal products, alcohol, and even cigarettes you use, because some medications can interact with Arformoterol.
| Never take Arformoterol with these. | |
|---|---|
| MAOIs (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors) | These are some types of medications used to treat mental illness. (Example: Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan) |
| Procarbazine | This is a medicine for cancer. |
| May react with these (take only on medical advice) | |
| Other respiratory medications | Medicines like Formoterol, Salmeterol, Theophylline. |
| Diuretics | Medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease. |
| Some antibiotics | Like Clarithromycin, Erythromycin, Levofloxacin. |
| Other | Caffeine, medications for mental illness, steroid hormones, and some cold medications. |
Be aware of these things when taking medication.
- Pay attention to symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse, tell your doctor right away.
- In case of emergency: If you suddenly have difficulty breathing, do not use this medicine. Use your 'rescue inhaler' at that time. If you need to use your rescue inhaler more often, it means that your COPD is not under control. So see your doctor immediately.
- If you experience shortness of breath after taking this medicine: Sometimes, very rarely, you may experience shortness of breath right after using this medicine. If this happens, stop using the medicine immediately and talk to your doctor.
- Other medications: If you are taking over-the-counter medications for colds, coughs, or allergies, ask your doctor about that as well, as some medications may interact with this one.
What are the possible side effects of the medication?
Like any medicine, Arformoterol can cause some side effects.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Other serious symptoms | Increased blood pressure, muscle pain or cramps, increased thirst after taking the medicine. |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | Sore throat |
| Diarrhea | Back pain |
| Insomnia | Tremors |
How to store the medicine?
To preserve the properties of medicine, it is important to store it properly.
- The best way to store is in the refrigerator: Store unopened vials in their foil pouches in the refrigerator. Do not open a vial until you are ready to use it.
- Storage at room temperature: If necessary, this medicine can be stored at room temperature (between 20-25 Celsius) for up to 6 weeks. If so, discard any remaining medicine after 6 weeks.
- Expired Medications: Safely dispose of expired or unwanted medications. Ask your doctor about programs available for this.
Take-Home Message
- Arformoterol is a long-term COPD medication, not a rescue medication.
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about all medical conditions you have and all other medications you are taking.
- Know exactly how to use the medicine through the nebulizer and take only the prescribed dose.
- If you experience serious side effects (chest pain, increased heart rate, allergic reactions), seek medical advice immediately.
- Always store medicine in a safe place, out of the reach of children, at the appropriate temperature.
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