Brand Names: Xopenex, Xopenex Concentrate, Xopenex HFA

Generic Name: levalbuterol (Pronunciation: leh val BYOO ter all)

• What is levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?
• What are the possible side effects of levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?
• What is the most important information I should know about levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?
• How should I use levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Xopenex)?
• What happens if I overdose (Xopenex)?
• What should I avoid while using levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?
• What other drugs will affect levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?

Levalbuterol is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve breathing.

Levalbuterol inhalation is used to treat reversible obstructive airway conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

Levalbuterol inhalation may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?

Stop using levalbuterol inhalation and seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following serious side effects:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• worsening of respiratory symptoms (shortness of breath, wheezing); or
• chest pain or irregular heartbeats.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use levalbuterol inhalation and talk to your doctor if you experience

• dizziness;
• tremor or nervousness;
• anxiety;
• headache;
• cough or runny nose;
• upset stomach; or
• leg cramps.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Read the Xopenex (levalbuterol) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

What is the most important information I should know about levalbuterol inhalation (Xopenex)?

Do not use more of this medication, or use doses more frequently, than directed by your doctor. Seek medical attention if you notice that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.

It is very important that you use nebulized levalbuterol properly, so that the medicine gets into the lungs. Talk to your doctor about proper nebulizer use.