Fenoterol

Products

Fenoterol is commercially available in combination with ipratropium bromide as a metered-dose inhaler (Berodual N). Berotec N is no longer on the market. Fenoterol has been approved in many countries since 2000.

Structure and properties

Fenoterol is present in drugs as fenoterol hydrobromide (C17H22BrNO4, Mr = 384.3 g/mol) is present, a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water. It has two chiral centers and is a racemate consisting of the two ,- and ,-enantiomers.

Effects

Fenoterol (ATC R03AC04) has bronchodilator, sympathomimetic, and anticonvulsant properties. The effects are due to selective binding to beta2 receptors. Effects occur rapidly, within minutes, and last between 3-5 hours.

Indications

For symptomatic treatment of acute airway constriction triggered by asthma, bronchitis, or COPD and for prevention in exertional asthma. Some medicines are also approved for long-term treatment. In some countries, fenoterol is also approved for inhibition of preterm labor (e.g., partusists). This article refers to inhaled use for respiratory conditions.

Dosage

According to the product information leaflet.

Abuse

Fenoterol may be abused as a doping agent.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity
  • Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
  • Tachyarrhythmias

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Drug-drug interactions have been described with beta-blockers, sympathomimetics, anticholinergics, theophylline, cardiac glycosides, MAO inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, halogenated inhalational anesthetics, levodopa, levothyroxine, oxytocin, and antiarrhythmics.

Adverse effects

The most common potential adverse effects include cough and tremor. Other adverse effects include cardiac arrhythmias, agitation, mental changes, hypokalemia, nausea and vomiting, headache, muscle cramps, nervousness, and throat irritation.

Cf.

Beta2-sympathomimetics, asthma, COPD.