Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Levalbuterol is utilized to alleviate wheezing and shortness of breath associated with lung problems such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This medication is considered a quick-relief medication that aims to manage these symptoms and ultimately reduce the amount of time spent away from work or school. Levalbuterol is classified as a bronchodilator, it relaxes the muscles surrounding the airways, thereby opening them up and allowing for easier breathing.
Uses and Dosage
Levalbuterol is available in different forms, including a liquid solution for inhalation via nebulizer, a concentrated solution for mixing with normal saline for inhalation via nebulizer, and an aerosol for inhalation via an inhaler. Use levalbuterol as directed, without exceeding the prescribed dosage.
If your asthma symptoms worsen, or if you find that levalbuterol inhalation is becoming less effective, or if you require more doses than usual of the asthma medications you use as needed, it may signify that your condition is deteriorating. Do not use extra doses of levalbuterol, but rather contact your doctor immediately.
Levalbuterol is effective in managing the symptoms of asthma and other lung diseases but does not cure these conditions. Keep taking levalbuterol even if you feel better, and do not stop using it without consulting your doctor.
If you use the inhaler, you will receive the medication in canisters. Each canister is designed to provide 200 inhalations. After using the specified number of inhalations, additional inhalations may not contain the correct amount of medication. Dispose of the canister after using the labeled number of inhalations, even if there is still some liquid left and it continues to spray when pressed. Keep track of the number of inhalations you have used, and divide the number of inhalations in your inhaler by the number of inhalations you use each day to determine how long your inhaler will last. Do not test whether the canister still contains medication by floating it in water.
Only use the inhaler that comes with the levalbuterol aerosol to inhale albuterol. Do not use any other medication with this inhaler, and do not use any other inhaler to inhale levalbuterol.
Ensure that levalbuterol inhalation does not enter your eyes. Avoid using the inhaler near a heat source or flame, as it may explode if exposed to high temperatures.
Before using levalbuterol for the first time, carefully read the written instructions that come with the inhaler or nebulizer. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist to demonstrate how to use it and practice using it while being observed.
If your child will be using the inhaler, ensure that he or she knows how to use it correctly. Observe your child each time he or she uses the inhaler to ensure that it is being used properly.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- headache
- dizziness
- nervousness
- uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body
- heartburn
- vomiting
- cough
- weakness
- fever
- diarrhea
- muscle pain
- leg cramps
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- chest pain
- fast or pounding heartbeat
- hives
- skin rash
- itching
- increased difficulty breathing or difficulty swallowing
- hoarseness
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
Caution
Prior to using levalbuterol, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to it, similar bronchodilators (such as albuterol, metaproterenol, salmeterol), sympathomimetic drugs (such as epinephrine, pseudoephedrine), or any other allergies. This product might include inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, seizures, or diabetes.
This medication may cause dizziness. Alcohol or marijuana can intensify this effect. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or any activity that requires alertness until you can perform it safely.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when it is clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unclear whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Xopenex is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
levalbuterol nebules:
- 1.25mg
FAQ
Is Xopenex the same as albuterol?
Both medications work the same for treating your asthma symptoms, but Xopenex has a different chemical shape that’s supposed to cause fewer side effects like fast heartbeat.
Is Xopenex a rescue inhaler?
Xopenex is a quick-relief inhaler. It will work within minutes and make breathing easier.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/levalbuterol/what-is
- https://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/COPD/Inhalers/XopenexHFA#:~:text=Xopenex%20HFA%20is%20a%20quick,minutes%20and%20make%20breathing%20easier
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levalbuterol-inhalation-route/description/drg-20067232
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17125/xopenex-inhalation/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603025.html
- https://www.drugs.com/xopenex.html
