Brand name:
Xopenex
Pronounced: ZOH-pen-ecks
Generic name:
Levalbuterol hydrochloride
Why is Xopenex prescribed?
Xopenex is a "bronchodilator." It works by relaxing the muscles
in the walls of the lungs' many tiny airways (bronchioles), allowing
them to expand so you can get more air. It is prescribed for asthma.
Most important fact about Xopenex
If your prescribed dosage of Xopenex does not provide relief, or
your symptoms become worse, consult your doctor immediately.
How should you take Xopenex?
Do not use more Xopenex than prescribed. Increasing the number of
doses can be dangerous and may actually make your asthma worse.
Xopenex should be taken only with an inhalation device called a
nebulizer. Do not add any other drugs to the nebulizer without first
asking your doctor.
--If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember; then take any
remaining doses for that day at equally spaced intervals. Never take
a double dose.
--Storage instructions...
Store unopened vials of Xopenex inhalation solution in their
protective foil pouch at room temperature, away from light and
excessive heat. Once the foil pouch has been opened, the vials
should be used within 1 to 2 weeks. Once a vial has been opened, the
contents should be used immediately or discarded. The solution
should be colorless. If not, throw the vial out.
Xopenex side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Xopenex.
- Side effects may include:
Cough,
flu symptoms,
nervousness,
runny nose,
sinus inflammation,
tremors,
viral infection
- Side effects in children may include:
Diarrhea,
fever,
headache,
hives,
increased asthma symptoms,
muscle pain,
rash,
runny nose,
sore throat,
swollen glands,
viral infection,
weakness
Why should Xopenex not be prescribed?
If Xopenex gives you an allergic reaction, you will not be able
to use it.
Special warnings about Xopenex
There is a slight chance of developing an immediate, serious
allergic reaction to Xopenex, with symptoms such as hives, rash,
mouth and throat swelling, and bronchospasm (constricted airways and
difficulty breathing). If this happens, or you experience
bronchospasm alone, stop using Xopenex and call your doctor
immediately.
If your asthma symptoms get worse despite Xopenex, call your
doctor. He may need to add an anti-inflammatory steroid drug such as
prednisone or beclomethasone to your treatment regimen.
Use Xopenex with caution if you have a heart condition, an
irregular heartbeat, or high blood pressure. Call your doctor
immediately if you notice any change in heartbeat, pulse, or blood
pressure. Caution is also advised if you suffer from seizures, an
overactive thyroid gland, or diabetes.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Xopenex
Xopenex should be used cautiously, if at all, with other
bronchodilators such as Proventil, Ventolin, or Primatene Mist.
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:
Antidepressant drugs classified as MAO inhibitors (Marplan,
Nardil, and Parnate) or tricyclics (Elavil and Tofranil)
Beta blockers (heart and blood pressure drugs) such as Inderal,
Lopressor, and Tenormin
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Diuretics (water pills) that lower your potassium levels such as
Lasix and HydroDIURIL
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Xopenex during pregnancy have not been adequately
studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your
doctor immediately. It is not known whether Xopenex appears in
breast milk, but it's considered wise to either give up
breastfeeding or discontinue the drug.
Recommended dosage for Xopenex
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose of Xopenex, seek medical attention
immediately.
- Symptoms of Xopenex overdose may include:
Chest pain,
dizziness,
dry mouth,
fatigue,
flu symptoms,
headache,
high blood pressure,
irregular heartbeat,
insomnia,
low blood pressure,
nausea,
nervousness,
rapid heartbeat,
tremors,
seizures
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