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Berotec® inhalation solution

Manufacturer:
Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd.

Generic Name:
fenoterol hydrobromide


Product Illustration Form:
inhalation solution

Route:
nebulizer


Why is it prescribed?

Berotec® inhalation solution contains fenoterol hydrobromide.

Fenoterol is used to relieve and prevent bronchospasm associated with asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and other pulmonary disorders where bronchospasm is a complicating factor.

 

Side Effects

Berotec® inhalation solution contains fenoterol hydrobromide.

Along with its needed effects, fenoterol may cause some unwanted or undesirable effects. Generally, fenoterol is well tolerated and many people will not experience unwanted effects. The severity and duration of these effects are dependant on many factors including duration of therapy, dose, route of administration and individual response. Possible unwanted effects include:

  • nervousness
  • slight palpitations
  • fine tremor
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • cough
  • bad taste

Uncommon:
  • increased heart rate
  • nausea
  • muscle cramps
  • weakness

Rare:
  • restlessness
  • irritability

Many of these unwanted effects, especially the most common ones, may disappear with continued use. Check with the doctor or pharmacist if any of them continue or become bothersome.

 

Precautions and Warnings for Berotec® inhalation solution

Berotec® inhalation solution contains fenoterol hydrobromide

Currently, fenoterol is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.
Never exceed the maximum dosage set by your physician. If you find that you are not responding to your usual dose, your asthma may be worsening and you should contact your physician to revise your treatment plan. Increasing the dose, especially over extended periods, can lead to tolerance. If you are using fenoterol for an acute asthma episode and the condition continues or worsens, stop using the fenoterol and call your doctor immediately. Drug Interactions: Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking. The following drugs and drug classes have been known to interact with fenoterol:

  • MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors (e.g. phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
  • tricyclic antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline)
  • some beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol)
  • epinephrine
  • other bronchodilators (e.g. salbutamol)

Use is not recommended in the following situations:
  • allergy to fenoterol or any component of the preparation
  • cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) associated with tachycardia (increased heart rate)

Caution recommended in the following situations:
  • hyperthyroidism
  • diabetes
  • heart disease

Use in pregnancy: Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that you may be pregnant.
Use while breastfeeding: Fenoterol is excreted in the breast milk. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before you begin breastfeeding.

 

Patient Information

Berotec® inhalation solution is intended for inhalation via a nebulizer.
Your doctor, pharmacist or health care provider should instruct you on the proper care and use of the nebulizer.
The undiluted Berotec® inhalation solution in its original bottle is stable for 30 days after it has been opened. The solution should be stored at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees centigrade). Prediluted solutions may be stored for 24 hours at room temperature.

 

Directions for Use

The average single dose is 0.5 mg to 1 mg of fenoterol. Treatment may be repeated every 6 hours as required.

 

Lung Diseases Treated with this Drug

  • asthma
  • bronchitis
  • bronchospasm associated with COPD
  • chronic bronchitis (COPD)
  • COPD
  • emphysema (COPD)

 

Need More Information?

For more information contact your physician, pharmacist, other health care professional or for general questions call your local lung association.