Indications 

Xopenex is a medication that is prescribed to individuals with reversible obstructive airway disease, including asthma and certain breathing difficulties associated with allergies.  

Its primary function is to treat and prevent bronchospasm, which refers to the sudden constriction of the muscles in your airways, causing them to narrow and making it difficult for you to breathe.  

Xopenex works rapidly to ease your breathing, thus making it a rescue medication. It belongs to the class of drugs called short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs), which help to relax the muscles in your airways, thereby opening them up and enabling you to breathe more easily. 

Uses and Dosage 

To ensure safe and effective use, follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Xopenex. Take this medication exactly as prescribed and do not exceed the recommended dose or use it for a longer period than instructed. 

Carefully read and understand the medication guide, patient information, and instruction sheets provided by your healthcare provider. For any concerns or queries, consult with your doctor or pharmacist. 

Before using the Xopenex inhaler for the first time, prime the device by pumping four test sprays into the air, away from your face. Shake the inhaler for at least five seconds before each spray. Re-prime the inhaler if it has not been used for more than three days. 

To use the Xopenex inhaler: 

1. Shake the canister well before each spray. 
2. Remove the cap from the mouthpiece and breathe out completely. 
3. Place the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips. 
4. Inhale slowly while pressing down on the canister. 
5. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly. 
6. Wait for at least one minute before taking a second inhalation and shake the inhaler again. 

To maintain the efficacy of the inhaler, keep it clean and dry and store it with the cap on the mouthpiece. Clean the inhaler once a week by removing the canister and washing the mouthpiece under warm running water for at least 30 seconds. Allow the components to dry completely before reassembling the inhaler. 

Side effects 

Allergic Reaction

Signs of an allergic reaction to Xopenex: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Severe Side Effects

If you experience any of the following after using Xopenex, contact your doctor immediately: 

• Wheezing, choking, or other breathing problems 
• Pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest 
• Worsening asthma symptoms 
• Low potassium levels, characterized by leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, extreme thirst, increased urination, numbness or tingling, or muscle weakness or limp feeling 

Common Side Effects

Common Xopenex side effects may include: 

• Dizziness, nervousness, or tremors 
• Runny nose, sore throat 
• Chest pain or tightness 
• Irregular heartbeats 
• Pain 
• Vomiting 

Cautions 

Prior to using Xopenex, there are several important factors to consider. Please keep in mind the following guidelines: 

• If you have a known allergy to levalbuterol or albuterol (such as Accuneb, ProAir, Proventil, or Ventolin), you should not use Xopenex. 
• If you have any pre-existing medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, heart rhythm disorder, seizure disorder, diabetes, or overactive thyroid, please inform your doctor prior to using Xopenex. 
• Inform your doctor about any other medications you may be taking, especially heart or blood pressure medication, diuretics (water pills), antidepressants, or other inhaled bronchodilators. 
• Please consult with your doctor if any of your asthma medications do not seem to work effectively in treating or preventing attacks. If you find yourself needing to use more medication than prescribed in a 24-hour period, contact your doctor immediately, as an increased need for medication could be a warning sign of a serious asthma attack. 
• Proper use of nebulized Xopenex is crucial to ensure that the medication is effectively delivered to the lungs. Speak with your doctor about proper nebulizer usage.