What is Foster?
Foster is a combination inhaler containing two active ingredients: the inhalative corticoid beclometason and the long-acting bronchodilatator formoterol. It is used to treat asthma and COPD.
The special formulation (extrafine particles) allows a good distribution even in the small airways. Foster can be used both as regular basic therapy and as a demand medication (MART concept).
The inhaler is available as a dosing aerosol and as a powder inhaler (Foster Nexthaler).
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Beclometason, Formoterol
Foster combines two mechanisms of action:
Beclometason (corticoid):
- Reduces inflammation in the airways
- Reduces swelling and fog production
- Reduces the sensitivity of the bronchi
- Long-term effect – protects against asthma attacks
**Formoterol (LABA – long-acting beta-2-agonist):* *
- Extends the bronchis
- Works within minutes (faster than Salmeterol)
- duration of action: 12 hours
- Can also be used as a reliever if required
Synergy effect: The combination is more effective than the individual active substances. Corticoids increase the number of beta-2-receptors, and beta-2-agonists increase the anti-inflammatory effect of the corticoids.
Who is it suitable for?
Foster is suitable for:
- Adults with medium to heavy asthma
- If an inhalative corticoid alone is not sufficient
- As MART therapy (Maintenance And Reliever Therapy)
- COPD (100/6 μg formulation)
Not suitable as:
- Acute first treatment of asthma attacks alone
- For children under 18 years (depending on formulation)
- With mild asthma, only occasionally occurring
MART concept: Foster can be used as a daily basic therapy (2x daily) as well as if required.
Available Dosages
Foster dosing aerosol:
- 100/6 μg (Beclometason/Formoterol) per stroke
- 200/6 μg (Beclometason/Formoterol) per stroke
Foster Nexthaler (Powder):
- 100/6 μg per single dose
- 200/6 μg per single dose
Recommended dosage for asthma:
- 1-2 strokes 2x daily (maintenance therapy)
- For MART: 1 stroke 2x daily + if required additional (max. 8 strokes/day)
For COPD:
- 2 strokes 2x daily (only 100/6 μg thickness)
How to Take
Dosieraerosol: 1. Remove protective cap, shake Two. Deep exhalation 3. Close the mouthpiece 4. slowly deep breathing, triggering spray Five. Breath stop about 10 seconds 6. Breathe slowly 7. Rinse mouth after inhalation (pill prevention)
Nexthaler (powder inhaler): 1. Open protective cap Two. Breathe deep (not in the inhaler!) 3. Close the mouthpiece 4. Breathe quickly and deeply Five. Keep breath 6. Close mouthpiece 7. Rinse mouth
Important:
- Apply regularly, even if no complaints
- After inhalation rinse mouth with water and sprinkle
- Do not change the dose autonomously
Contraindications
**Foster must not be applied at:* *
- hypersensitivity to beclometason, formoterol or auxiliary substances
Preview at:
- Active or resting lung tuberculosis
- Mushroom, virus or bacterial infections of the respiratory tract
- Heavy cardiovascular diseases
- QT extension
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hyperthyroidism
- phenochromocytoma
- Hypokaliemia
pregnant: Only with clear indication. In asthma, control of the disease is more important than theoretical risks.
Style time: Application possible after use-risk weighing.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- oral soor (pilz infection in the mouth) – avoidable by mouthwashing
- Heiserkeit
- Headaches
- Tremor
- Heart palp
** Occasionally (0,1-1%):* *
- Husten after inhalation
- Mouth dryness
- Muscle cramps
- Unrest, nervousness
Selten:
- Systemic corticoid effects (at high doses, long use)
- Paradox bronchospasmus
- Hypokaliemia
- Hyperglycemia
Protection against oral soor: After each inhalation rinse the mouth thoroughly with water and sprinkle the water.
Interactions
Reactions with:
- Betablockers – can weaken the action of formoterol
- QT-extending medication – risk of cardiac arrhythmias
- Potassium sinking drugs (diuretics, corticoids) – Hypokaliemia risk
- CYP3A4 inhibitor (Ritonavir, Ketoconazole) – increased corticoid levels
No combination recommended:
- Other long-term beta-2-agonists (doubling)
- Non-selective beta blockers in asthma
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Foster right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.