What should seniors know before using Brovana?

Before using Brovana (arformoterol), seniors should know that it's a medicine prescribed to control wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and other symptoms caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD, a group of lung problems that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Brovana comes as a liquid that you put into a nebulizer, a machine that turns the liquid into a mist that's inhaled through a face mask or mouthpiece.

In studies, Brovana was just as effective when used by people ages 65 and older as when used by younger people. It was also no more likely to cause side effects in older people than in younger people. However, anyone who takes Brovana should know that it can cause potentially severe side effects, including:

• fast or pounding heartbeat
• chest pain
• trouble breathing or swallowing
• hives or skin rash
• swelling of your eyes, face, tongue, lips, mouth, hands, lower legs, ankles or feet

If you're a senior and you're prescribed Brovana, give your doctor a list of all medications (prescription and nonprescription) and supplements that you take. Tell your doctor about any health problems you have or have had, especially heart problems, high blood pressure, seizures, thyroid or liver problems or diabetes.