Levalbuterol
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Beta2-Adrenergic Agonist
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Levalbuterol is used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which are conditions that cause breathing difficulties. It helps relieve symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath by relaxing muscles in the airways.
Levalbuterol works by relaxing muscles in the airways, which are the tubes that carry air to your lungs. This relaxation helps open the airways, making it easier to breathe, providing quick relief from symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
Levalbuterol is usually taken using an inhaler or nebulizer. The typical dose for adults and children over 4 years is 0.63 mg to 1.25 mg every 6 to 8 hours as needed. It's important to follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.
Common adverse effects of levalbuterol include nervousness, tremors, and dizziness. These effects are usually mild and temporary. Serious effects like chest pain or fast heartbeat are rare but require immediate medical attention.
Levalbuterol can cause paradoxical bronchospasm, which is a sudden worsening of breathing. Overuse can lead to heart problems. It's important to use it only as prescribed. If you experience chest pain or irregular heartbeat, contact your doctor immediately.
Indications and Purpose
How does levalbuterol work?
Levalbuterol works by relaxing muscles in the airways, which are the tubes that carry air to your lungs. This relaxation helps open the airways, making it easier to breathe. Think of it like widening a narrow road to allow more traffic to pass through smoothly. Levalbuterol is effective for treating asthma and COPD, which are conditions that cause breathing difficulties. It provides quick relief from symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
Is levalbuterol effective?
Levalbuterol is effective for treating asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which are conditions that cause breathing difficulties. It works by relaxing muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Clinical studies show that levalbuterol improves lung function and reduces symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. It's important to use levalbuterol as directed by your doctor to achieve the best results.
What is levalbuterol?
Levalbuterol is a medication used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which are conditions that cause breathing difficulties. It belongs to a class of drugs called bronchodilators, which work by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve breathing. Levalbuterol is often used as a quick-relief inhaler to alleviate symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. It can be used alone or with other medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take levalbuterol?
Levalbuterol is usually used for short-term relief of asthma or COPD symptoms. You should use it as directed by your doctor, typically when you experience breathing difficulties. The duration of use depends on your specific condition and response to treatment. Always follow your doctor's instructions and discuss any concerns about how long to use levalbuterol.
How do I dispose of levalbuterol?
To dispose of levalbuterol, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, remove it from its original container, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take levalbuterol?
Levalbuterol is usually taken using an inhaler. You should use it as directed by your doctor, typically every 4 to 6 hours as needed. It's important not to exceed the recommended dose. Shake the inhaler well before use, and breathe in deeply while pressing down on the inhaler to release the medication. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but don't double up on doses. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
How long does it take for levalbuterol to start working?
Levalbuterol starts working quickly, usually within 5 to 10 minutes after inhalation. It reaches its full effect in about 30 minutes, providing relief from asthma or COPD symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. The duration of its effect can last for 4 to 6 hours. Individual response may vary, so it's important to use levalbuterol as directed by your doctor for the best results.
How should I store levalbuterol?
Store levalbuterol at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, to protect it from damage. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect its effectiveness. Always keep levalbuterol out of children's reach to prevent accidental use. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of levalbuterol?
The usual dose of levalbuterol for adults and children over 4 years old is typically 0.63 mg to 1.25 mg via nebulizer every 6 to 8 hours as needed. The dose may be adjusted based on individual response and medical advice. It's important to follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions. For children under 4 years, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing. Always use the medication as directed by your healthcare professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take levalbuterol with other prescription drugs?
Levalbuterol can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects. Beta-blockers, which are used for heart conditions, can reduce the effectiveness of levalbuterol. Diuretics, which are water pills, may increase the risk of low potassium levels. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions. They can help adjust your treatment plan to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Can levalbuterol be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Levalbuterol is generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding. It is not known to be excreted in significant amounts in breast milk. However, it's always best to discuss with your doctor before using any medication while breastfeeding. They can help determine if levalbuterol is the right choice for you and your baby, considering your specific health needs.
Can levalbuterol be taken safely while pregnant?
Levalbuterol is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it's important to use it only if clearly needed. The benefits of controlling asthma symptoms usually outweigh potential risks. Uncontrolled asthma can lead to complications for both mother and baby. Always discuss with your doctor before using levalbuterol during pregnancy to ensure it's the best option for you and your baby.
Does levalbuterol have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of levalbuterol include nervousness, tremors, and dizziness. These effects are usually mild. Serious adverse effects, like chest pain or fast heartbeat, are rare but require immediate medical attention. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to levalbuterol and suggest appropriate actions to take.
Does levalbuterol have any safety warnings?
Yes, levalbuterol has safety warnings. It can cause paradoxical bronchospasm, which is a sudden worsening of breathing. If this happens, stop using it and seek medical help immediately. Overuse can lead to heart problems, such as increased heart rate or blood pressure. It's important to use levalbuterol only as prescribed. If you experience chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, or severe dizziness, contact your doctor. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions to avoid potential risks.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking levalbuterol?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking levalbuterol. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or drowsiness. It may also worsen asthma symptoms. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and be aware of how your body responds. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking levalbuterol to get personalized advice based on your health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking levalbuterol?
Yes, it's safe to exercise while taking levalbuterol. In fact, levalbuterol can help improve breathing during physical activity. However, be mindful of how your body feels. If you experience dizziness, unusual fatigue, or breathing difficulties, slow down or stop exercising and rest. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you have concerns about exercising with levalbuterol, talk with your doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to stop levalbuterol?
Levalbuterol is often used for short-term relief of asthma symptoms. If you stop using it, your symptoms may return or worsen. It's important to follow your doctor's advice about when to use levalbuterol. If you feel you no longer need it, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can help you safely adjust your treatment plan to manage your condition effectively.
Is levalbuterol addictive?
Levalbuterol is not addictive or habit-forming. It doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it. Levalbuterol works by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve breathing, and this mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to use more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that levalbuterol doesn't carry this risk.
Is levalbuterol safe for the elderly?
Levalbuterol is generally safe for the elderly, but they may be more sensitive to its effects. Older adults are more vulnerable to side effects like dizziness or heart problems. It's important for elderly patients to use levalbuterol as directed by their doctor and report any unusual symptoms. Regular check-ups can help ensure the medication is working safely and effectively.
What are the most common side effects of levalbuterol?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of levalbuterol include nervousness, tremors, and dizziness. These effects are usually mild and temporary. If you notice new symptoms after starting levalbuterol, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the side effects are related to levalbuterol and suggest ways to manage them.
Who should avoid taking levalbuterol?
Levalbuterol should not be used if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Caution is needed if you have heart problems, high blood pressure, or a history of seizures. Always consult your doctor about your medical history before using levalbuterol to ensure it's safe for you.
Forms / Brands
