Drug interactions
Formoterol + Propranolol
Severity: Major
Formoterol and Propranolol: 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
Propranolol is a nonselective beta-blocker that blocks beta-2 receptors and can reduce or abolish the bronchodilator effect of formoterol. It may also provoke severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma or COPD.
What this interaction means in plain words
Formoterol and Propranolol 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; Propranolol belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
Pharmacodynamic antagonism at beta-2 adrenergic receptors.
What to do
Avoid nonselective beta-blockers in patients with asthma or reactive airway disease; if a beta-blocker is required, choose a cardioselective agent at the lowest dose with respiratory monitoring.
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 Propranolol
- Propranolol + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Propranolol Major
- Adrenaline-articaine + Propranolol Major
- Amifostine + Propranolol Major
- Amiodarone + Propranolol Major
- Arformoterol + Propranolol Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Formoterol with Propranolol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Formoterol and Propranolol 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. Propranolol is a nonselective beta-blocker that blocks beta-2 receptors and can reduce or abolish the bronchodilator effect of formoterol. It may also provoke severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma or COPD.
How serious is the interaction between Formoterol and Propranolol?
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 nonselective beta-blockers in patients with asthma or reactive airway disease; if a beta-blocker is required, choose a cardioselective agent at the lowest dose with respiratory monitoring.
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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