Xopenex (Levalbuterol) Drug Overview of Side Effects and Precautions for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Xopenex

Asthma »

Myths, facts, and statistics about asthma

Before we present the typical symptoms of asthma, we should dispel some common myths about this condition. This is best achieved by conducting a short true or false quiz.

T or F - Asthma is "all in the mind."
T or F - You will "grow out of it."
T or F - Asthma can be cured, so it is not serious and nobody dies from it.
T or F - You are likely to develop asthma if someone in your family has it.
T or F - You can "catch" asthma from someone else who has it.
T or F - Moving to a different location, such as the desert, can cure asthma.
T or F - People with asthma should not exercise.
T or F - Asthma is best controlled when one has an asthma management plan designed by your doctor. This should include the medications used for quick relief as well as maintenance therapy.
T or F - Medications used to treat asthma are habit...

Read the Asthma article »

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SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, nervousness, shaking (tremor), dizziness, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea, cough, sore throat, or runny nose may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: anxiety, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, leg/muscle cramps, weakness.

Seek immediate medical attention if this unlikely but serious side effect occurs: chest pain.

Rarely, this medication has caused severe (rarely fatal), sudden worsening of breathing problems/asthma (paradoxical bronchospasm). If you experience sudden wheezing, seek immediate medical attention.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking levalbuterol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol, metaproterenol, salmeterol); or to sympathomimetic drugs (e.g., epinephrine, pseudoephedrine); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart disease (e.g., high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm, coronary insufficiency), seizures, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), diabetes, kidney disease, low blood potassium level (hypokalemia).

This drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

The elderly may be at greater risk for the effects on the heart while using this drug.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.