Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA)
Formoterol with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Formoterol (Formoterol). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Formoterol at 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Formoterol at 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Formoterol, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Formoterol is co-administered. Adjusted 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Formoterol during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Formoterol is metabolised and may need a temporary 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Formoterol regimen.
Will antibiotics make Formoterol stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Formoterol efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Formoterol levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Formoterol
More on Formoterol
- With alcoholFormoterol and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Formoterol be taken with food?
- Side effectsFormoterol side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideFormoterol dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Formoterol start working?
- DurationHow long does Formoterol last?
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