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ArformoterolPronounced"ar-for-MOE-ter-ol" UsesArformoterol is used as a long-term (maintenance) treatment to prevent and decrease wheezing and shortness of breath caused by breathing problems (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema). Arformoterol belongs to the class of drugs known as long-acting beta agonists (LABAs). Arformoterol is also known as a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school. This medication does not work right away and should not be used for sudden attacks of breathing trouble. Your doctor must prescribe a quick-relief medicine/inhaler (such as albuterol, also known as salbutamol) for sudden shortness of breath while you are using arformoterol. You should always have a quick-relief inhaler with you. Arformoterol is not approved to treat asthma. People with asthma using long-acting inhaled beta agonists (such as arformoterol) without also using an inhaled corticosteroid may have an increased risk of serious (sometimes fatal) breathing problems. How to Use This MedicationRead the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. This medication is used with a special machine called a nebulizer that changes the solution to a fine mist that you inhale. Learn how to prepare the solution and use the nebulizer properly. If a child is using this medication, a parent or other responsible adult may need to help the child use the nebulizer properly. If you have any questions, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist. This product should be clear and colorless. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Using the nebulizer, inhale this medication into your lungs as directed by your doctor, usually 2 times a day (once in the morning and once in the evening). The 2 doses should be about 12 hours apart. Each treatment usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Use this medication only through a nebulizer. Do not swallow or inject the solution. Do not mix with other medicines in the nebulizer. To prevent infections, clean the nebulizer and mouthpiece/face mask according to the manufacturer's directions. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. Do not use more of this medication or use it more often than prescribed since this may cause serious side effects. Do not use more than 30 micrograms of arformoterol a day. If you have been using a quick-relief inhaler (albuterol, salbutamol) on a regular daily schedule (such as 4 times daily), your doctor will direct you to stop this schedule and only use the quick-relief inhaler as needed for sudden shortness of breath. Consult your doctor for details. Learn which of your inhalers/medications you should use every day and which you should use if your breathing suddenly worsens (quick-relief drugs). Ask your doctor ahead of time what you should do if you have new or worsening cough or shortness of breath, wheezing, increased sputum, worsening peak flow meter readings, waking up at night with trouble breathing, if you use your quick-relief inhaler more often (more than 2 days a week), or if your quick-relief inhaler does not seem to be working well. Learn when you can treat sudden breathing problems by yourself and when you must get medical help right away. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen. |