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Formoterol (OT)
Formoterol is a long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist that binds to beta-2 receptors on airway smooth muscle to cause bronchodilation and improve airflow.
Formoterol is a long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist that binds to beta-2 receptors on airway smooth muscle to cause bronchodilation and improve airflow. Used for Asthma maintenance therapy, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) maintenance therapy.
At a glance
| Generic name | Formoterol (OT) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Oxis Turbuhaler® |
| Sponsor | AstraZeneca |
| Drug class | Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) |
| Target | Beta-2 adrenergic receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Respiratory |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Formoterol activates beta-2 adrenergic receptors on bronchial smooth muscle cells, triggering a cascade that increases intracellular cAMP levels, leading to smooth muscle relaxation and sustained bronchodilation. Its long-acting formulation provides sustained bronchodilation for 12 hours or more, making it suitable for maintenance therapy in chronic obstructive airway diseases. It also has anti-inflammatory properties through effects on mast cells and other immune cells in the airways.
Approved indications
- Asthma maintenance therapy
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) maintenance therapy
Common side effects
- Tremor
- Headache
- Palpitations
- Muscle cramps
- Nervousness
- Tachycardia
Key clinical trials
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |