Inhaled long-acting beta2 agonists (LABA) (Formulary)

TAM (Treatments and Medicines) NHS Highland
NHS Highland

Consider use of combination inhalers with inhaled steroids (Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)); in asthma, LABAs should only be given in a combination inhaler; in COPD use as per NICE. 

FORMOTEROL - (First line)

Therapy notes

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

PREFERRED: Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI) (Inhalation powder)These are more environmentally friendly than MDIs and should be considered first line providing that the patient shows good inhaler technique with the chosen device.

  • Dry powder inhaler (Oxis Turbohaler®) 6 micrograms, 12 micrograms per metered inhalation.

Dosage:

By inhalation of powder, 6 to 12 micrograms once or twice daily.  Refer to BNF.

SALMETEROL

Therapy notes

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

PREFERRED: Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI) (Inhalation powder)These are more environmentally friendly than MDIs and should be considered first line providing that the patient shows good inhaler technique with the chosen device. 

  • Dry powder for inhalation (Serevent Accuhaler®) disk containing blisters of salmeterol 50 micrograms /blister

Dosage:

By inhalation, 50 micrograms (1 blister) twice daily.  Refer to BNF.

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

ALTERNATIVE: Metered dose inhalers (MDI) (Pressurised inhalation)To be considered in the small proportion of patients who are unable to use a DPI.

  • Aerosol inhalation (Serevent Evohaler®) 25 micrograms/metered inhalation

Dosage:

By inhalation, 50 micrograms (2 puffs) twice daily.  Refer to BNF.

Editorial Information

Document Id: F344