Xopenex

Generic name: Levalbuterol

What is Xopenex?

Xopenex is a medicine that treats airway tightness (bronchospasm) in adults and in children ages 6 and older. Xopenex helps to relax the muscles that surround the airway passages in your lungs, to help you breathe easier.

What is the most important information I should know about Xopenex?

Rarely, instead of working the way it is intended, Xopenex can cause a closing of the airway. This may occur with the first use of a new canister or vial. If this type of reaction occurs, stop using Xopenex immediately and seek emergency medical attention.

If you notice that you need more Xopenex than usual, this may be a sign of your asthma worsening. If you experience this, contact your doctor right away.

Use caution when taking Xopenex if you have high blood pressure, heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), heart disease, or any other heart-related problems due to the possible effects Xopenex may have on your heart or blood pressure.

Xopenex overdoses may be life-threatening. Do not take more Xopenex than your doctor has prescribed.

Xopenex can sometimes cause an allergic reaction the first time you take it. Signs of this include rash, itching, trouble breathing, fluid buildup on the airway, or airway closure. Although rare, if this occurs, you should seek immediate emergency medical attention.

High doses of Xopenex may worsen diabetes and lead to other diabetic complications. If you are a diabetic you should monitor your blood glucose and report any changes to your doctor while taking Xopenex.

Who should not take Xopenex?

You should not take Xopenex if you have ever had an allergic reaction or sensitivity to Xopenex or any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Xopenex?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Xopenex. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of heart disease, heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), convulsive disorders, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, high blood pressure, or low levels of potassium in your blood.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults and Adolescents age 12 and older: The usual starting dose is 0.63 milligrams (mg) taken via a nebulizer 3 times a day (usually every 6-8 hours). Your doctor may increase your dose to 1.25 mg taken 3 times a day depending on your condition.

Children ages 6-11 years old: The usual dose is 0.31 mg taken via nebulizer 3 times a day.

How should I take Xopenex?

Xopenex foil pouches should be opened just enough to remove one unit dose. Carefully twist open the top of the unit dose and empty the contents into the nebulizer reservoir. Next, connect the nebulizer reservoir to the face mask, and then connect the nebulizer to the compressor. Sit in a comfortable, upright position, place the facemask on and then start the compressor. Breathe calmly and deeply until no more mist is produced from the reservoir (usually 5-15 minutes). Once the treatment is finished, clean and store the nebulizer for future use.

What should I avoid while taking Xopenex?

You should not take more Xopenex or increase the frequency of your Xopenex treatments without first checking with your doctor. You should also not take Xopenex within 2 weeks of taking MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) or tricyclic antidepressants.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Xopenex?

If Xopenex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Xopenex with the following: beta-adrenergic receptor blocking medicines (beta blockers), digoxin, nonpotassium-sparing diuretics, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and tricyclic antidepressants.

What are the possible side effects of Xopenex?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: palpitations, chest pain, rapid heart rate, accidental injury, weakness, fever, headache, viral infection, diarrhea, enlarged lymph nodes, muscle pain, asthma, sore throat, runny nose, eczema, rash, itching

Can I receive Xopenex if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Xopenex during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. You should only take Xopenex during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks to your unborn baby. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Xopenex?

If you forget to take Xopenex, take it as soon as you remember. If it is closer to your next scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and take Xopenex according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double your doses.

How should I store Xopenex?

Xopenex vials should be stored in the protective foil covering at room temperature, away from excessive heat and protected from light. Once the foil pouch is opened, the unopened vials inside should be used within 2 weeks. Vials that are removed from the foil pouch and not used immediately should be used within 1 week. Discard any vial if the solution is not colorless.