LEVALBUTEROL (generic name) XOPENEX (brand name)

Question 1

LEVALBUTEROL

Drug Class

Answer 1

DRUG CLASS

Sympathomimetic, bronchodilator

Question 2

LEVALBUTEROL

Indications

Answer 2

INDICATIONS
Treatment of acute bronchospasm in patients with reversible obstructive airway disease (COPD/Asthma). Bronchospasm prophylaxis (prevention/treatment) in asthma patients.

Question 3

LEVALBUTEROL

Mechanism of Action

Answer 3

MECHANISM OF ACTION
Stimulates Beta-2 receptors resulting in smooth muscle relaxation of bronchial tree and peripheral vasculature. More selective for Beta-2 than Albuterol.

Question 4

LEVALBUTEROL

Contraindications

Answer 4

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Hypersensitive, angioedema, tachydysrhythmias, , severe cardiac disease

Question 5

LEVALBUTEROL

Adverse Effects

Answer 5

ADVERSE EFFECTS
Headache, anxiety, dizziness, restlessness, hallucinations, throat irritation, tachycardia, hypotension, hypertension, dysrhythmias, angina, NV, dyspepsia, tremors, hypokalemia, hyperglycemia

Question 6

LEVALBUTEROL

Precautions

Answer 6

PRECAUTIONS
Increases actions in bronchodilators, MAOI’s, TCA’s, and other adrenergic. May cause a prolonged QT interval with Stall or phenothiazine’s

Question 7

LEVALBUTEROL

Dose and Administration

Answer 7

DOSE AND ADMINISTRATION
ADULTS
1.25 mg to 2.5 mg in 3 ml normal saline administered by nebulizer every 20 minutes to a maximum of 3 doses.
PEDI
0.075 mg/kg (minimum of 1.25 mg) administered by nebulizer every 20 minutes to a maximum of 3 doses