Xopenex, generic name levalbuterol, is an inhaled medication used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COPD includes some types of asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema and is the number one cause of illness, disability and death in the United States. Smoking and air pollutants are the main contributors in the development of COPD. Xopenex, a beta-agonist, is a bronchodilator that works by relaxing tightened airways in the lungs. Side effects are associated with its use.
Anaphylactic Reaction
It is possible to have a serious allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis, to this, or any other medication. The symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction include shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, itching, hives and difficulty swallowing due to swelling of the mouth, lips and tongue, dizziness or fainting and a weak, rapid pulse. Anaphylaxis typically occurs within minutes, but can take longer than a half-hour, according to the Mayo Clinic. This type of severe allergic reaction is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
Common Side Effects
Xopenex is an effective bronchodilator that works quickly to open airways, though common side effects are associated with its use. PubMed Health states that those side effects include dizziness, heartburn, cough, nervousness and uncontrollable muscle tremors. Most side effects will clear up with its use or become more tolerable. If the symptoms do not go away, or become worse, inform your physician.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects can occur as the result of using Xopenex. According to PDRHealth, these side effects include a rapid, pounding heartbeat or palpitations; chest pain; sore throat and flu symptoms; enlarged lymph nodes and worsening of COPD symptoms. Developing serious side effects is rare, but if they do occur, discuss them with your healthcare provider at once.
Drug Interactions
Inform your physician of the medications and supplements you take, as drug interaction can occur with Xopenex. Beta blockers, such as atenolol and carvedilol, taken for high blood pressure and heart failure, can react negatively with Xopenex, according to Drugs.com. Other heart and blood pressure medications, including digoxin, hydrochlorothiazide and furosemide may also react with it. Interactions with anti-depressants such as amitriptyline, imipramine and phenelzine are also possible. If you take another inhaled bronchodilator medication or use caffeine or diet pills, you may not be able to use Xopenex. Some may be able to take Xopenex with these medications by having dosages adjusted.
Overdose
When someone is having difficulty breathing, panic can set in, resulting in that person taking too much Xopenex to restore their breathing. The symptoms of an overdose include seizures, a racing heartbeat and chest pain, nausea and vomiting, extreme tiredness and weakness. An overdose is a serious situation. In case of an overdose, Drugs.com advises getting immediate medical help. Call the local poison control center for advice or 911 immediately if the person is unconscious or not breathing.
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