Formoterol, also known as eformoterol, is a long-acting β₂ agonist (LABA) used as a bronchodilator in the management of asthma and COPD. Formoterol has an extended duration of action (up to 12 h) compared to short-acting β₂ agonists such as salbutamol (albuterol), which are effective for 4 h to 6 h. LABAs such as formoterol are used as “symptom controllers” to supplement prophylactic corticosteroid therapy. A “reliever” short-acting β₂ agonist (e.g., salbutamol) is still required, since LABAs are not recommended for the treatment of acute asthma

n November 2005, the US 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.^[2]

At the current time, available long-acting β₂ agonists include salmeterol, formoterol, bambuterol, and sustained-release oral salbutamol.

Combinations of inhaled steroids and long-acting bronchodilators are becoming more widespread – combination preparations include fluticasone/salmeterol and budesonide/formoterol