Drug interactions
Formoterol + Isoproterenol
Severity: Major
Formoterol and Isoproterenol: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Both are beta-agonists, so using them together can cause additive tachycardia, tremor, hypertension or arrhythmia and may lower potassium. The combination provides no added bronchodilator benefit and increases cardiovascular risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Formoterol and Isoproterenol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Formoterol belongs to Respiratory; Isoproterenol belongs to Respiratory.
Why it happens
Additive beta-adrenergic stimulation with beta-2 mediated hypokalemia.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use where possible and use a single beta-agonist. If both are required, monitor heart rate, rhythm, blood pressure and potassium.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Formoterol
- Adagrasib + Formoterol Major
- Amiodarone + Formoterol Major
- Amisulpride + Formoterol Major
- Amitriptyline + Formoterol Major
- Amoxapine + Formoterol Major
- Arformoterol + Formoterol Major
Other interactions of Isoproterenol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Formoterol with Isoproterenol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Formoterol and Isoproterenol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Both are beta-agonists, so using them together can cause additive tachycardia, tremor, hypertension or arrhythmia and may lower potassium. The combination provides no added bronchodilator benefit and increases cardiovascular risk.
How serious is the interaction between Formoterol and Isoproterenol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid concurrent use where possible and use a single beta-agonist. If both are required, monitor heart rate, rhythm, blood pressure and potassium.
What other medicines interact with Formoterol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Formoterol with, for example, Adagrasib, Amiodarone, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Formoterol page.
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