Levalbuterol

Question 1

Brand name of Levalbuterol

Answer 1

Xopenex

Question 2

Drug class of Levalbuterol

Answer 2

Sympathomimetic, bronchodilator

Question 3

Indications for Xopenex

Answer 3

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

Question 4

Mechanism of Action of Xopenex

Answer 4

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

Question 5

Contraindications of Levalbuterol

Answer 5

Hypersensitivity, angioedema, tachydysrhythmias, severe cardiac disease.

Question 6

Adverse effects of Xopenex

Answer 6

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

Question 7

Precautions to Levalbuterol

Answer 7

Increases actions of bronchodilators, MAOI’s,

TCA’s, and other adrenergics drugs.

Question 8

Adult dose and admin of Levalbuterol

Answer 8

1.25 mg to 2.5 mg in 3 mL normal saline administered by nebulizer every 20 minutes to a maximum of 3 doses.

Question 9

Pedi dose and admin of Levalbuterol

Answer 9

0.075 mg/kg(minimum of 1.25 mg) administered by nebulizer every 20 minutes to a maximum of 3 doses.