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Levalbuterol

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Pronounced

"lev-al-BYOU-ter-ohl"

Uses

Levalbuterol is used to treat wheezing and shortness of breath that commonly occur with lung problems (such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It is a quick-relief drug. Controlling these symptoms can decrease time lost from work or school. Levalbuterol belongs to a class of drugs known as bronchodilators. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. This product is used with a special machine called a nebulizer that changes the solution to a fine mist that you breathe in. Consult your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist on how to inhale this medication properly with this equipment. If a child is using this equipment, a parent or other responsible adult should supervise the child.

This product should be clear and colorless. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

This product does not require any mixing before use unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. This medication is inhaled into the lungs using a nebulizer as directed by your doctor, usually 3 times a day. Each treatment usually takes about 5 to 15 minutes. Use this medication only through a nebulizer. Do not swallow or inject the solution. Do not mix with other medications in the nebulizer. To prevent infections, clean the nebulizer and mouthpiece/face mask according to the manufacturer's directions.

Dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often than prescribed without your doctor's approval. Using too much of this medication will increase your risk of serious (possibly fatal) side effects.

Learn which of your inhalers/medications you should use every day (controller drugs) and which you should use if your breathing suddenly worsens (quick-relief drugs). Ask your doctor ahead of time what you should do if you have new or worsening cough or shortness of breath, wheezing, increased sputum, worsening peak flow meter readings, waking up at night with trouble breathing, if you use your quick-relief inhaler/medication more often (more than 2 days a week), or if your quick-relief inhaler/medication does not seem to be working well. Learn when you can treat sudden breathing problems by yourself and when you must get medical help right away.

Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.