What is Xopenex used for?

Xopenex is used to treat or prevent narrowing of the airways (bronchospasm) in patients 6 years of age and older with reversible obstructive airway disease, e.g., asthma.

Who should not take Xopenex?

You should not take Xopenex if you have had any type of reaction to medicines containing levalbuterol or albuterol.

Special Warnings Concerning Xopenex:

• Xopenex can produce a narrowing of the airways called paradoxical bronchospasm in some patients, which may be life threatening.
• Your health care provider may need to prescribe other medications in addition to Xopenex to help control your asthma.  Do not stop taking other asthma medications unless advised by your health care provider.
• Xopenex can cause significant heart-related side effects, such as an increase in pulse, blood pressure, and/or related symptoms.  If you have a heart condition, your doctor will determine if Xopenex is right for you.
• Use as directed by your doctor or health care provider.  Deaths have been reported with similar inhaled medications in asthma patients who use too much.
• Hypersensitivity reactions (severe allergic reactions) may occur immediately after taking Xopenex.  If you experience itching, areas of skin swelling (angioedema), skin rash, or narrowing of the airways, these may be signs of a hypersensitivity reaction.

General Precautions with Xopenex: 

If you currently have, or have had a history of the following conditions, your health care provider will evaluate you to decide if Xopenex is right for you:

• heart disease, (e.g., reduced heart circulation, high blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat)
• seizures
• high levels of thyroid hormone
• diabetes
• reactions to medications similar to Xopenex

What should I tell my doctor or health care provider?

Review all medications that you are taking with your health care provider, including those that you take without a prescription.  Because of the potential to interact with Xopenex and cause side effects, tell your doctor or health care provider if you are taking other medications such as:

• diuretics such as furosemide and HCTZ
• antidepressants such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants
• drugs known to affect the heart’s regular rhythm
• drugs used for high blood pressure or after a heart attack, such as metoprolol or atenolol

Tell your doctor if you are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

What are some possible side effects of Xopenex? (This is not a complete list of side effects reported with Xopenex. Your health care provider can discuss with you a more complete list of side effects.)

Side effects of Xopenex may depend on the dose.  Xopenex may result in a temporary increase in heart rate, tremors, or nervousness.

For more detailed information about Xopenex, ask your health care provider.

Link to Xopenex's label

Back to Drug Index

Posted 4/20/1999
Revised 7/11/2001, 5/26/2004, 12/2/2004, 12/29/04ghc