provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Arformoterol Coupon - Arformoterol 2ml of 15mcg/2ml vial

arformoterol

Generic Brovana
Used for COPD
Used for COPD

Arformoterol (Brovana) is a medication that can help people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) breathe easier. You breathe in the medication twice per day using a nebulizer. Studies show that arformoterol (Brovana) can help your lungs work better and lower the risk of hospitalizations due to worsening COPD symptoms.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
Last reviewed on April 2, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Arformoterol (Brovana)?

What is Arformoterol (Brovana) used for?

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

How Arformoterol (Brovana) works

Arformoterol (Brovana) is a long-acting beta agonist (LABA). It works by relaxing the muscles in your lungs to open up your airways, making it easier to breathe.

Are you looking for information on formoterol (Perforomist) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsBrovana
Drug ClassLABA
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$1108.98(save 92.26%)
GoodRx discount
$85.82
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Arformoterol (Brovana)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • General pain (8%)
  • Chest pain (7%)
  • Back pain (6%)
  • Diarrhea (6%)
  • Sinus infection (5%)
  • Leg cramps (4%)
  • Shortness of breath (4%)
  • Rash (4%)
  • Flu-like symptoms (3%)
  • Swelling in arms, legs, or feet (3%)
  • Chest congestion (2%)

Other Side Effects

  • Dehydration
  • Changes in voice
  • Fast heart rate

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Allergic reaction: hives; swelling of your face, lips, or tongue; difficulty breathing
  • Sudden narrowing of your airways: difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest pain or tightness, cough
  • Heart problems: dizziness, fatigue, weakness, tremor, irregular heartbeat, worsening symptoms of heart problem you already have

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Chest pain

Less common

Anxiety

blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

bloody or cloudy urine

blurred vision

chest discomfort or tightness

chills

cold sweats

confusion

cool, pale skin

cough

decreased urination

depression

difficult or labored breathing

difficult, burning, or painful urination

difficulty swallowing

dilated neck veins

dizziness

dry mouth

extreme tiredness or weakness

fainting

fast heartbeat

fever

flushed, dry skin

frequent urge to urinate

fruit-like breath odor

headache

hives, itching, skin rash

increase in heart rate

increased hunger

increased thirst

increased urination

irregular breathing

irregular heartbeat, recurrent

lightheadedness

loss of appetite

loss of consciousness

mood changes

muscle aches and pains

nausea

nervousness

nightmares numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones

pounding, slow heartbeat

rapid breathing

rapid weight gain

seizures

shakiness

slurred speech

sore throat

stomach pain

stuffy or runny nose

sunken eyes

sweating

unusual tiredness or weakness

unusual weight gain or loss

vomiting

wrinkled skin

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Arm, back, or jaw pain

blurred vision

chest discomfort, tightness, or heaviness

confusion

decreased urine

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

drowsiness

dry mouth

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

increased thirst

loss of consciousness

mood changes

muscle pain, cramps, or tremors

nervousness

numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

pounding in the ears

rapid, deep breathing

restlessness

seizures

slow heartbeat

stomach cramps

tremor

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Diarrhea

Less common

Blindness

bloody, black, or tarry stools

blurred vision

burning feeling in the chest or stomach

change in vision

change in voice

constipation

decreased vision

difficulty in moving

dry skin

eye pain

indigestion

leg cramps

muscle stiffness

pain, swelling, or redness in the joints

pelvic pain

skin color changes

stomach upset

tearing

tenderness in the stomach area

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Arformoterol (Brovana)

thumbs-up

Pros

A recommended medication for COPD

Helps with lung function and lowers the number of COPD attacks that require hospitalization

Some people might find arformoterol (Brovana) easier to use than inhalers.

thumbs-down

Cons

Takes about 5 to 10 minutes to take each dose

Might not work as well as other types of long-acting inhaled medications like Spiriva (tiotropium)

Need to use with nebulizer machine, which isn't ideal for someone who's on the go

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Arformoterol (Brovana)

pharmacist

  • Use arformoterol (Brovana) as prescribed twice every day at the same times each day. This helps make sure the medication can work best for you. Don't take any extra doses or use other similar long-acting medications because of the risk of severe and life-threatening side effects from taking too much.

    • Carefully read the instructions on how to use arformoterol (Brovana) with a nebulizer machine. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about using the medication.

      • Keep the vials of arformoterol (Brovana) solution in the original foil pouch and in the refrigerator. After opening the pouch, keep any unused vials in the foil pouch in the refrigerator.

        • You can also keep unopened foil pouches of arformoterol (Brovana) at room temperature for up to 6 weeks. Throw it away if you haven't used it within 6 weeks at room temperature or if it's past the expiration date, whichever is sooner.

          • Before using each vial of arformoterol (Brovana), check the solution to make sure it's colorless. If it's discolored, throw the vial away and use a new one to be sure it's safe for you to use.

            • Sit in a comfortable, upright position during your breathing treatment. Breathe as calmly, deeply, and evenly as possible until there's no more mist in the nebulizer.

              • Clean your nebulizer after each time you use it. This helps prevent lung infections that can happen if you use a nebulizer machine that isn't cleaned well.

                • Call your provider if your breathing gets worse. Also contact your provider if you're using your rescue medication more often than usual. These could be signs you need a change in your COPD medications.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Arformoterol (Brovana)

                  Is arformoterol (Brovana) a good choice for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
                  Yes, arformoterol (Brovana) is one of the recommended options for people with COPD. Arformoterol (Brovana) is considered a bronchodilator since it helps open the airways by relaxing the muscles in the lungs. It's typically one of the first types of medications that someone with COPD starts taking. A study showed that people taking arformoterol (Brovana) for a year had a 40% lower risk of death or hospitalization that were related to COPD attacks than those who took placebo. Keep in mind that these people were allowed to take other COPD medications and rescue medications during the study as well. Discuss with your provider about whether arformoterol (Brovana) is right for your needs.
                  Does arformoterol (Brovana) come as an inhaler?
                  No, arformoterol (Brovana) is a nebulized medication. A nebulizer is a machine that turns a medication solution into a mist that you can easily breathe in through a mouthpiece or face mask. To use a nebulizer, you'll need access to a power source to plug the machine into. It takes about 5 to 10 minutes to take each arformoterol (Brovana) dose.
                  How do I know if arformoterol (Brovana) is working for me?
                  You'll know if arformoterol (Brovana) is working for you based on how often you have difficulty breathing and need your rescue medication. The purpose of arformoterol (Brovana) is to keep your airways open so you're less likely to have shortness of breath. If you're still having difficulty breathing often while using arformoterol (Brovana), let your provider know. They might need to add or consider switching you to a different medication. Get medical help right away if your symptoms seem to be getting worse or aren't improving while taking this medication.
                  How long do I need to use arformoterol (Brovana)?
                  There isn't a set amount of time you'll need to use arformoterol (Brovana) to manage your COPD. Some people need to take COPD medications, like arformoterol (Brovana), for their whole life, while others only need them for just a short amount of time. After you use arformoterol (Brovana) for a period of time and don't experience any short-term breathing problems, your provider might slowly lower your dose to see how well your COPD is managed. It's important you take arformoterol (Brovana) exactly as prescribed. This will make sure the medication works as best as possible for you.
                  Is arformoterol (Brovana) a rescue medication?
                  No, arformoterol (Brovana) isn't a rescue medication. Instead, it's a long-acting medication that works over time to keep your airways open. Short-acting medications, like nebulized albuterol (Accuneb) or albuterol inhaler (ProAir, Ventolin), are rescue medications that open your airways quickly to relieve sudden shortness of breath. If you've been using arformoterol (Brovana) as directed by your provider and still experiencing breathing problems, let your provider know. Your provider can discuss with you about whether any changes need to be made to your COPD treatment.
                  GoodRxEducationalIcon

                  How to save using GoodRx

                  Compare Prices
                  1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                  Select your free coupon
                  2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                  Show coupon to your pharmacist
                  3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                  Get free couponLearn more
                  warings-icon

                  What are the risks and warnings for Arformoterol (Brovana)?

                  Arformoterol (Brovana) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Not for use in people with asthma

                  Arformoterol (Brovana) shouldn't be used in people with asthma. The medication hasn't been studied for this purpose, so it's not known how safe it is or how well it works for asthma. There are several other inhalers available that are specifically for people with asthma.

                  risk-warning

                  Narrowing of your airways (bronchospasm)

                  Although rare, arformoterol (Brovana) can sometimes cause a muscle spasm in your lungs (bronchospasm). This can lead to difficulty breathing, wheezing, cough, and chest discomfort. If you become short of breath after using arformoterol (Brovana), get medical help right away.

                  risk-warning

                  Heart problems

                  • Risk factors: High blood pressure | Heart failure | Heart rate or rhythm problems | Using more arformoterol (Brovana) than recommended

                    Arformoterol (Brovana) can cause changes in your blood pressure and heart rate. If you have high blood pressure or other heart problems, arformoterol (Brovana) can make it worse, especially if you take the medication more often than instructed. Watch out for worsening signs and symptoms of your heart condition. Tell your provider if you develop dizziness, fatigue, tremor, rapid heartbeat, or weakness while taking arformoterol (Brovana).

                    risk-warning

                    Allergic reactions

                    Allergic reactions to arformoterol (Brovana) are possible, including life-threatening reactions like facial swelling, shock, and anaphylaxis (closing of the throat). Get medical attention right away if you notice hives, rash, red skin, swelling of the lips or tongue, or difficulty breathing after using arformoterol (Brovana).

                    dosage

                    Arformoterol (Brovana) dosage forms

                    The average cost for 60 vials of 2ml of 15mcg/2ml of Arformoterol (Brovana) is $85.82 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 92.26% off the average retail price of $1108.98.
                    vial
                    Vial
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    2ml of 15mcg/2ml60 vials$85.82$1.43

                    Typical dosing for Arformoterol (Brovana)

                    The typical dose is 15 mcg (one vial) inhaled through the mouth by nebulization twice per day (once in the morning and once in the evening).

                    interactions

                    Interactions between Arformoterol (Brovana) and other drugs

                    Arformoterol (Brovana) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Arformoterol (Brovana). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    • Methacholine
                    drug-cost

                    How much does Arformoterol (Brovana) cost?

                    To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                    Brovana (brand)
                    GoodRx lowest price

                    $85.82

                    (save 93.97%)
                    Arformoterol (Brovana) (generic)
                    GoodRx lowest price

                    $85.82

                    (save 92.26%)
                    View prices & coupons
                    contraindications-icon

                    Arformoterol (Brovana) contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Arformoterol (Brovana) will not be safe for you to take.
                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Arformoterol (Brovana)?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Arformoterol (Brovana). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Arformoterol (Brovana)
                    Used for:

                    • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

                    $85.82 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Formoterol (Perforomist)
                    Used for:

                    • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

                    $204.38 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Serevent Diskus (salmeterol)
                    Used for:
                    $424.86 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    images

                    Arformoterol (Brovana) images

                    colorless - Arformoterol Tartrate 15mcg / 2ml Solution for Inhalation
                    This medicine is Colorless Vial.colorless - Arformoterol Tartrate 15mcg / 2ml Solution for Inhalation
                    colorless - Arformoterol Tartrate 15mcg / 2ml Solution for Inhalation
                    This medicine is Colorless Vial.colorless - Arformoterol Tartrate 15mcg / 2ml Solution for Inhalation
                    This medicine is Colorless Vial.
                    This medicine is Colorless Vial.
                    This medicine is Colorless Vial.
                    This medicine is Colorless Vial.
                    colorless - Arformoterol Tartrate 15mcg / 2ml Solution for Inhalation
                    This medicine is Colorless Vial.colorless - Arformoterol Tartrate 15mcg / 2ml Solution for Inhalation
                    colorless - Arformoterol Tartrate 15mcg / 2ml Solution for Inhalation
                    This medicine is Colorless Vial.colorless - Arformoterol Tartrate 15mcg / 2ml Solution for Inhalation

                    Get savings updates for Arformoterol (Brovana)

                    Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Arformoterol (Brovana) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                    By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    Donohue, J. F., et al. (2014). One-year safety and efficacy study of arformoterol tartrate in patients with moderate to severe COPD. Chest.

                    American Thoracic Society. (2020). Nebulizer breathing treatments at home. Patient Education | Information Series.

                    Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease. (2020). Global strategy for the diagnosis, management, and prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (2023 report).

                    View All References (3)

                    Slate Run Pharmaceuticals. (2023). Arformoterol tartrate inhalation [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    King, P. (2008). Role of arformoterol in the management of COPD. International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

                    Almadhoun, K., et al. (2022). Bronchodilators. StatPearls.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                    Was this page helpful?

                    Browse medications

                    View All

                    Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.