Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA)
Formoterol in France: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Formoterol in France under ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in EUR. Formoterol belongs to the Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) class.
- Regulator
- ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé)
- Currency
- EUR
About Formoterol
Formoterol is approved as maintenance therapy in asthma in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid, and in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease alone or in combination. In France, prescription medications are tightly regulated under several lists (Liste I, Liste II, stupéfiants). Sécurité sociale covers most prescription costs at varying rates depending on the drug.
Mechanism and action
Formoterol selectively activates beta-2 adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle, producing bronchodilation through cyclic AMP-mediated relaxation.
Brands and generics in France
In France, Formoterol is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. Pharmacies in France are independent owner-pharmacist businesses, marked by the iconic green cross. The pharmacist is a routine medical consultant for minor ailments and triage. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé) equivalence rules, and the price difference in EUR is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Online pharmacy is permitted only via French ARS-authorised pharmacies physically located in France, primarily for non-prescription medication. Tele-consultation has expanded prescription access since 2020. For Formoterol specifically, the legal online options in France depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé).
Frequently asked questions
Is Formoterol available in France? ▾
Yes — Formoterol and its brands are available in France through pharmacies authorised by ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé), in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Formoterol in France? ▾
In France, prescription medications are tightly regulated under several lists (Liste I, Liste II, stupéfiants). Sécurité sociale covers most prescription costs at varying rates depending on the drug. The exact status of Formoterol (Rx or OTC) is determined by ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé); most active ingredients in the Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Formoterol cost in France? ▾
The price in EUR depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Formoterol in France
Formoterol in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.