Arformoterol Is a Nebulized Long-Acting Bronchodilator Used to Treat COPD

Arformoterol is a prescription medication used for the long-term maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It belongs to a class of drugs called long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABAs) and is delivered through a nebulizer as an inhalation solution.

If your doctor has mentioned Arformoterol — or you've seen it listed as Brovana — this guide covers everything you need to know: what it is, how it works, how to take it, what it costs, and who should (and shouldn't) use it.

What Is Arformoterol?

Here are the basics:

• Generic name: Arformoterol Tartrate
• Brand name: Brovana
• Drug class: Long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist (LABA)
• Manufacturer: Sunovion Pharmaceuticals (brand-name Brovana)
• FDA approved for: Long-term maintenance treatment of bronchoconstriction in COPD patients
• Controlled substance: No — Arformoterol is not a controlled substance
• Generic available: Yes

Arformoterol is the active (R,R)-enantiomer of Formoterol, which means it's a purified form of a well-known bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles in your airways, making it easier to breathe. For a deeper explanation of how it works in your body, see our article on how Arformoterol works.

What Is Arformoterol Used For?

Arformoterol is FDA-approved for one specific use: the long-term maintenance treatment of bronchoconstriction in patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

In plain terms, it keeps your airways open over time so you can breathe more easily throughout the day. It's a maintenance medication — meaning you take it on a regular schedule to prevent symptoms, not to treat sudden breathing problems.

What Arformoterol Is NOT For

• Not a rescue medication: Arformoterol won't help during an acute COPD flare-up or breathing emergency. You still need a short-acting rescue inhaler (like Albuterol) for sudden symptoms.
• Not approved for asthma: Arformoterol is contraindicated in asthma patients who are not using a long-term asthma control medication. It is approved only for COPD.
• Not for children: Arformoterol is not approved for pediatric use.

How Is Arformoterol Taken?

Arformoterol comes as a 15 mcg/2 mL inhalation solution in single-use vials. Here's how to use it:

Step-by-Step

1. Set up your nebulizer: You need a standard jet nebulizer connected to an air compressor. Do not use an ultrasonic nebulizer.
2. Open the vial: Tear open the foil pouch and remove one single-use vial.
3. Pour the solution: Open the vial and empty the entire contents into the nebulizer cup.
4. Connect and breathe: Attach the mouthpiece or face mask, turn on the compressor, and breathe in the mist slowly and deeply until the nebulizer stops producing vapor. This usually takes 5 to 15 minutes.
5. Discard the vial: Each vial is single-use. Throw away any unused solution after your treatment.

Dosing Schedule

• Standard dose: 15 mcg (one vial) inhaled via nebulizer twice daily — once in the morning and once in the evening
• Maximum dose: 30 mcg per day (do not exceed two vials per day)
• Do not mix other medications in the nebulizer with Arformoterol

Storage

• Store unopened vials in the refrigerator in their original foil pouch
• You can store vials at room temperature for up to 6 weeks if needed (for travel, etc.)
• Once a foil pouch is opened, use the vials within 6 weeks

Who Should Not Take Arformoterol?

Arformoterol is not right for everyone. You should not take it if you:

• Have asthma without also using a long-term asthma control medication (like an inhaled corticosteroid)
• Are allergic to Arformoterol, Formoterol, or any ingredient in the solution
• Are a child or teenager — it's not approved for pediatric patients

Use with caution if you have:

• Heart disease, high blood pressure, or irregular heartbeat
• Seizure disorders
• Thyroid problems (thyrotoxicosis)
• Diabetes
• Liver problems

If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before starting Arformoterol. It's classified as pregnancy Category C, meaning it should only be used if the benefit outweighs the potential risk.

For a complete list of potential side effects, read our guide on Arformoterol side effects.

How Much Does Arformoterol Cost?

Arformoterol pricing varies significantly depending on whether you're buying brand-name or generic, and whether you have insurance.

Without Insurance (Cash Price)

• Brand-name Brovana: $456 to $1,045 for a 30-day supply (60 vials)
• Generic Arformoterol Tartrate: As low as $47.87 for 30 vials (15-day supply) with a SingleCare coupon, or about $77.32 for 60 vials through GoodRx

With Insurance

Many commercial insurance plans cover Arformoterol, though some require prior authorization or step therapy (meaning you may need to try a cheaper medication first). Medicare Part B typically covers nebulized medications like Arformoterol at 80% after the deductible, since it's administered with durable medical equipment.

Savings Options

There are several ways to lower your costs:

• Discount cards: GoodRx, SingleCare, and other platforms offer significant savings on generic Arformoterol
• Patient assistance programs: Sunovion Pharmaceuticals offers a patient assistance program for eligible uninsured or underinsured patients
• Medicare Part B: If you qualify, Medicare covers most of the cost for nebulized medications

For a complete breakdown, check out our guide on how to save money on Arformoterol.

Final Thoughts

Arformoterol is a proven, effective maintenance treatment for COPD that's especially useful for patients who need nebulized therapy — whether because of difficulty using handheld inhalers, severe COPD, or personal preference. It's been on the market for years, a generic version is available, and most insurance plans cover it.

If your doctor has prescribed Arformoterol, understanding how to take it correctly, what side effects to watch for, and how to manage costs puts you in the best position to get the most out of your treatment.

Need help finding Arformoterol at a pharmacy near you? Search Medfinder to check availability and pricing in your area.