Levalbuterol Hydrochloride Information

LEVALBUTEROL (lev al BYOO terol) is a bronchodilator. It helps open up the airways in your lungs to make it easier to breathe. This medicine is used to treat and to prevent bronchospasm.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions: -diabetes -heart disease or irregular heartbeat -high blood pressure -kidney disease -pheochromocytoma -seizures -thyroid disease -an unusual or allergic reaction to albuterol, levalbuterol, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives -pregnant or trying to get pregnant -breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is used in a nebulizer. Nebulizers make a liquid into an aerosol that you breathe in through your mouth or your mouth and nose into your lungs. You will be taught how to use your nebulizer. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not use more often than directed. Do not mix this medicine with other medicines in your nebulizer. Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

-anti-infectives like chloroquine and pentamidine -caffeine -cisapride -diuretics -medicines for colds -medicines for depression or emotional or psychotic conditions -medicines for weight loss including some herbal products -methadone -some antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, levofloxacin, and linezolid -some heart medicines -steroid hormones like dexamethasone, cortisone, hydrocortisone -theophylline -thyroid hormones

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve. Call your doctor right away if your asthma or bronchitis gets worse while you are using this medicine. If your mouth gets dry try chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy. Drink water as directed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: -allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue -difficulty breathing or wheezing that increases or does not go away -dizziness or fainting spell -high blood pressure -fever -muscle cramps or weakness -numbness in fingers or toes -vomiting Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): -constipation -cough -difficulty sleeping -headache -nervousness or trembling -stuffy or runny nose -throat irritation -unusual taste -upset stomach

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. Store at a room temperature of 68 to 77 degrees. Do not freeze. Protect from light and excessive heat. Keep unopened vials in the foil pouch. Once the foil pouch is opened, the vials should be used within two weeks. Discard any vial if the solution is not clear. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.