What Is Perforomist? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Perforomist is a brand-name prescription medication used for the long-term treatment of COPD. Whether you're newly diagnosed, starting Perforomist for the first time, or researching options for yourself or a loved one, this guide covers everything you need to know in plain language.

What Is Perforomist?

Perforomist is the brand name for

formoterol fumarate inhalation solution — a long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist (LABA) in a liquid form designed for use with a nebulizer machine. It is FDA-approved for the long-term, twice-daily maintenance treatment of bronchoconstriction (airway tightening) in adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

It is

not a rescue medication. It does not work fast enough to relieve an acute breathing attack. You must always have a fast-acting rescue inhaler (like albuterol) available.

What Is Perforomist Used For?

Perforomist has one FDA-approved use:

• COPD maintenance therapy: Long-term, twice-daily treatment to keep airways open and prevent COPD symptoms in adults with chronic bronchitis or emphysema.

It is

not indicated to treat asthma or acute COPD attacks. The safety and effectiveness of Perforomist in asthma has not been established, and a boxed warning exists against its use in asthma without an inhaled corticosteroid.

How Is Perforomist Taken?

Perforomist comes as a clear, colorless liquid in single-dose, plastic unit-dose vials. Each vial contains 20 mcg of formoterol fumarate in 2 mL of solution. It is administered through inhalation using a

standard jet nebulizer connected to an air compressor. It cannot be used with ultrasonic or mesh nebulizers.

What Is the Correct Perforomist Dosage?

The recommended adult dose of Perforomist is:

• One 20 mcg unit-dose vial inhaled via nebulizer twice daily (morning and evening)
• Maximum daily dose: 40 mcg (2 vials per day). Do not exceed this.
• Doses should be approximately 12 hours apart — for example, 8 AM and 8 PM
• If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never double up.

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How Should I Store Perforomist?

Perforomist should be stored in the refrigerator at 36°F–46°F (2°C–8°C) in the protective foil pouch until ready to use. It can also be stored at room temperature (up to 77°F/25°C) for up to 3 months. Keep away from direct light and heat. Once the foil pouch is opened, use the vial immediately — don't save partially used vials.

Is Perforomist a Controlled Substance?

No. Perforomist is not a controlled substance and has no DEA schedule. It is a standard prescription medication with no special controls on refills or prescribing beyond standard state pharmacy laws.

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Is There a Generic for Perforomist?

Yes. Generic formoterol fumarate inhalation solution 20 mcg/2 mL is available from multiple manufacturers and is bioequivalent to brand-name Perforomist. The generic is significantly less expensive with discount coupons (as low as $92–$99 per month with GoodRx) compared to the brand retail price of $865–$1,484. Ask your prescriber to write generically if cost or availability is a concern.

Key Things to Remember

• Perforomist is for COPD maintenance, not asthma or rescue use
• Always keep a rescue inhaler (albuterol) on hand for sudden symptoms
• Do not mix with other medications in the nebulizer
• Do not exceed 40 mcg per day (2 vials)
• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your prescriber immediately

For more detail on side effects, see

Perforomist side effects: what to expect. If you're having trouble finding Perforomist at your pharmacy,

medfinder can help.