ChEBI: A member of the class resorcinols that is 5-(1-hydroxyethyl)benzene-1,3-diol in which one of the methyl hydrogens is replaced by a 1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propan-2-amino group. A beta2-adrenergic agonist, it is used (as the
ydrobromide salt) as a bronchodilator in the management of reversible airway obstruction.
World Health Organization (WHO)
Fenoterol, a beta 2-adrenoreceptor agonist with bronchodilator
activity, was introduced in 1971 for the management of asthma. In the 1960's, the
use of other sympathomimetics in pressurised aerosols had already been
associated with an increase in mortality due to asthma. However, it was not clear
whether patients died from the severity of the asthma attack or from its treatment.
Mechanism of action
Fenoterol is a selective stimulant of β2-adrenoreceptors. It dilates bronchi and blood vessels,
has a pronounced tocolytic action, lowers contractile activity and reduces uterus
tonicity. It is mainly used in premature births.
