Xopenex (Levalbuterol Hydrochloride)

Do’s

• Xopenex is used with a special machine called a nebulizer that changes the solution to a fine mist that you breathe in. Before using, visually check the product for clarity and color. If there are particles or discoloration, the liquid should not be used.
• The medication is inhaled into the lungs using a nebulizer as directed by a healthcare provider, usually 3 times a day. Each treatment typically takes about 5 to 15 minutes.
• The dosage is based on the individual's medical condition, age, and response to treatment. 
• Learn which inhalers/medications to use every day (controller drugs) and which to use if breathing suddenly worsens (quick-relief drugs). Moreover, know when to seek medical help for worsening symptoms or new symptoms.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all other medicines being used, especially heart or blood pressure medication, diuretics, antidepressants, or other inhaled bronchodilators.
• If there is an increased need for medication in 24 hours, consult a healthcare provider, as it could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.
• Proper nebulizer use is crucial to ensure that the medicine gets into the lungs
• If a dose is missed, it should be used as soon as remembered. However, if it's almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped.

Don’ts

• Do not swallow or inject the solution.
• Do not mix other medications in the nebulizer to prevent infections.
• Do not increase the dose or use the drug more often than prescribed without a healthcare provider's approval.

Common Side Effects:

• Pain
• Vomiting

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects as mild and serious side effects may also occur. Individuals should consult their healthcare provider for comprehensive information on potential side effects and how to manage them.

Individuals should not use Xopenex if they are allergic to levalbuterol or albuterol (Accuneb, ProAir, Proventil, Ventolin). Allergic reactions to Xopenex can include urticaria, angioedema, rash, bronchospasm, anaphylaxis, and oropharyngeal edema.

Before using Xopenex, individuals should inform their healthcare provider if they have heart disease, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, a heart rhythm disorder, a seizure disorder, diabetes, or an overactive thyroid.

Xopenex can produce paradoxical bronchospasm, which may be life-threatening. If this occurs, Xopenex should be discontinued immediately, and alternative therapy should be instituted

Like other beta-adrenergic agonist medications, Xopenex may produce significant hypokalemia in some patients, which has the potential to produce adverse cardiovascular effects.

Xopenex may interact with beta-blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), diuretics (water pills), digoxin, and other inhaled bronchodilators. It should be administered with extreme caution to patients being treated with MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, or within 2 weeks of discontinuation of such agents.

Consult a healthcare provider before using Xopenex, as they can provide personalized guidance based on an individual's specific medical history and circumstances.