Indications
Levosalbutamol (also called levalbuterol) is used to relieve and prevent narrowing of the airways (bronchospasm) in asthma, chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other breathing problems where the airways tighten. It helps ease wheezing, chest tightness, cough and shortness of breath.
How It Works
Levosalbutamol is the active half of the older medicine Salbutamol. It stimulates beta-2 receptors in the muscles of the airways, which makes these muscles relax. The airways open wider, so air can move in and out of the lungs more easily. Because it contains only the active form, a smaller dose gives a similar effect.
Dosage and Administration
Use exactly as prescribed. For tablets or syrup, the usual adult dose is 1 to 2 mg three times daily. Inhaler and nebuliser doses are set by the doctor. Children’s doses depend on age and weight and must be decided by a doctor.
- Measure syrup with the measuring cup or spoon provided, not a kitchen spoon.
- If you use an inhaler, learn the correct technique from your doctor or pharmacist.
- If you need it more often than usual, your asthma may be getting worse: see your doctor.
Interactions
Tell your doctor about all medicines you take. Beta blockers such as Propranolol can block its effect and may tighten the airways. Diuretics (water tablets), Theophylline and steroids can lower blood potassium when taken with it. Certain antidepressants (tricyclics and MAO inhibitors) may increase effects on the heart and blood pressure. Avoid using other similar reliever medicines at the same time unless your doctor advises it.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Levosalbutamol or Salbutamol, or to any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Common side effects include shaking of the hands (tremor), nervousness, headache, fast heartbeat or palpitations, dizziness and muscle cramps. Low blood potassium can occur, especially at high doses.
Get urgent medical help if you have chest pain, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, a sudden increase in wheezing or breathlessness right after a dose, or signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if your doctor decides the benefit is greater than the risk, as well controlled asthma is important for both mother and baby. It is not known whether it passes into breast milk; ask your doctor before using it while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Use with care if you have heart disease, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes or seizures. Blood sugar may rise in people with diabetes. This medicine relieves symptoms but does not treat the underlying inflammation of asthma, so keep using any preventer medicine your doctor has prescribed.
Overdose
Too much can cause a very fast heartbeat, chest pain, severe shaking, low potassium, high blood sugar and seizures. Contact a doctor or go to the nearest hospital straight away.
Therapeutic Class
Short-acting beta-2 agonist bronchodilator.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not puncture or burn inhaler canisters.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.