Drug | Dose delivered by inhaler (μg) | Other formulations | Recommended dose | Duration of action (hours) | Onset of action |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Short-acting | |||||
Salbutamol (albuterol) | 100, 200 (MDI & DPI) | Solution for nebulizer; oral (syrup, tablets); vials for injection | 200 μg up to 4 times daily | 4-6 | 5 mins |
Terbutaline | 400, 500 (DPI) |  | 500 μg up to 4 times daily | 4-6 | 30 mins |
Long-acting | |||||
Formoterol | 4.5-12 (MDI & DPI) | Solution for nebulizer (20 μg/2 mL) | 12 μg twice daily (Aerolizer/Easyhaler 9 μg†twice daily (Turbuhaler) 20 μg twice daily (Nebulizer) | 12+ | <5 mins* |
Arformoterol |  | Solution for nebulizer (15 μg/2 mL) | 15 μg twice daily | 12+ | 6.7 mins* |
Salmeterol | 25-50 (MDI & DPI) |  | 50 μg twice daily | 12+ | 2 hours** |