The pharmacologic and clinical properties of Oxis (formoterol) Turbuhaler

Abstract

Oxis Turbuhaler has been approved for use in Europe at doses of 6, 12, or 24 micrograms once or twice daily. It has a rapid onset of action (within minutes) and demonstrates a maintained effect on airway function (an improvement of 20-30 l/min in PEF is seen 12 h after dosing), and it is well tolerated and safe. It decreases the incidence of acute asthma attacks, stimulates an immediate increase in PEF (in the order of 40-45 l/min), is effective when given in conjunction with anti-inflammatory medication, and has been shown to maintain a level of asthma control in all studies performed. Hence, Oxis Turbuhaler is a clinically relevant tool for use in patients receiving inhaled corticosteroids who require additional control of their asthma symptoms.