Xopenex

Section 8 - MEDICATION GUIDELINES

BRONCHODILATORS

Levalbuterol (XOPENEX) / Beta2-Adrenergic Receptor Agonist / Bronchodilator

DESCRIPTION

• Xopenex (levalbuterol HCl) Inhalation Solution is a sterile, clear, colorless, preservative-free solution of the hydrochloride salt of levalbuterol, the (R)-enantiomer of the drug substance racemic albuterol. Levalbuterol HCl is a relatively selective beta2-adrenergic receptor agonist

INDICATIONS

• For the treatment of bronchospasm associated with asthma or COPD with wheezing.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• Xopenex (levalbuterol HCl) Inhalation Solution is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to levalbuterol HCl or racemic albuterol.

PRECAUTIONS

• Levalbuterol HCl, like all sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, hypertension, and cardiac arrhythmias; in patients with convulsive disorders, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes mellitus; and in patients who are unusually responsive to sympathomimetic amines.
• Use with Beta-blockers, diuretics, Digoxin, antihistamines or tricyclic antidepressants may cause adverse cardiac effects.

DOSAGE

• Adults: 1.25 mg nebulized via updraft
• Pediatrics: refer to Handtevy System
  • Less than 6 years of age: 0.31 mg nebulized via updraft added to 2.5 ml of normal saline
  • 6 years and older: 0.63 mg nebulized via updraft added to 2.5 ml of normal saline