A review of the efficacy and safety of fluticasone propionate/formoterol fixed-dose combination

Introduction: Fluticasone propionate/formoterol fumarate (FP/FORM) is one of the newer combinations among inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and long-acting beta 2-agonist (LABA) combination formulations currently available. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of this FP/FORM combination, it is important to review all the available evidence and take a comprehensive look at the current and relevant data in the patient population suffering from asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Areas covered: In this focused review, we summarize the available literature published until January 2021 using the PubMed/Medline and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register databases on the efficacy and safety of FP/FORM with its mono-components; concurrent administration of FP+FORM; and with other ICS/LABA combinations in asthma and COPD patients. Expert opinion: FP/FORM combination therapy is a strong alternative in the treatment of persistent asthma and moderate-severe COPD. Extensive study of several trials has established the superior efficacy of FP/FORM combination therapy over FP or FORM monotherapy, comparable efficacy with FP+FORM and non-inferiority to other ICS/LABA fixed-dose combinations. The safety profile of FP/FORM has also been found to be comparable with respect to its mono-components and their concurrent use, and also other ICS/LABA combinations such as formoterol/budesonide and fluticasone/salmeterol.

Automated summary

This review summarizes the available literature on the efficacy and safety of FP/FORM in asthma and COPD patients, confirming that FP/FORM combination therapy is an effective and safe option for the treatment of persistent asthma and moderate-severe COPD.