What is the dose of levalbuterol (Levalbuterol) tartrate inhaler?

From the Guidelines

The recommended dose of levalbuterol tartrate inhaler for adults is 4-8 puffs every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then every 1-4 hours as needed, while for children, it is 4-8 puffs every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then every 1-4 hours as needed, with the dose being similar to albuterol MDI dose 1.

Key Considerations

• Levalbuterol tartrate inhaler is used for the treatment of bronchospasm in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• The medication works by relaxing the airway smooth muscle, causing bronchodilation.
• It is essential to use the inhaler correctly to ensure optimal delivery of the medication.

Administration Guidelines

• Before using the inhaler, prime it by releasing 4 test sprays into the air away from the face if it is new or hasn't been used for more than 3 days.
• To administer, exhale completely, place the mouthpiece in the mouth with lips sealed around it, inhale slowly while pressing down on the canister, hold the breath for 10 seconds, then wait at least one minute before the second inhalation.
• The maximum daily dose and frequency should not exceed the recommended dose to minimize the risk of side effects.

Side Effects and Precautions

• Common side effects of levalbuterol tartrate inhaler include tremor, nervousness, increased heart rate, and headache.
• If symptoms worsen or the medication doesn't provide relief, seek medical attention immediately.
• It is crucial to monitor patients for any adverse effects and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

From the FDA Drug Label

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: The recommended dosage of Xopenex (levalbuterol HCl) Inhalation Solution for patients 6–11 years old is 0.31 mg administered three times a day, by nebulization. Routine dosing should not exceed 0. 63 mg three times a day. Adults and Adolescents ≥12 years old: The recommended starting dosage of Xopenex (levalbuterol HCl) Inhalation Solution for patients 12 years of age and older is 0.63 mg administered three times a day, every 6 to 8 hours, by nebulization.

The dose of levalbuterol tartrate inhaler is not explicitly stated as the provided text refers to levalbuterol HCl Inhalation Solution. However, based on the available information, the recommended dosages for levalbuterol HCl are:

• 0.31 mg three times a day for children 6-11 years old
• 0.63 mg three times a day for adults and adolescents ≥12 years old, with a possible increase to 1.25 mg three times a day for patients with more severe asthma 2

From the Research

Dose of Levalbuterol Tartrate Inhaler

• The dose of levalbuterol tartrate inhaler can vary depending on the patient's condition and response to treatment 3, 4, 5.
• Studies have shown that levalbuterol can be given at lower doses than racemic albuterol to provide comparable bronchodilation, with the potential for reduced beta-mediated adverse effects in adults and children 3, 4.
• A dose of 0.63 mg to 1.25 mg of levalbuterol has been shown to be effective in improving lung function and reducing symptoms in patients with asthma 4, 5.
• The choice of dose may depend on the severity of the patient's asthma, as well as their response to previous treatments 4, 5.
• It is essential to note that the optimal dose of levalbuterol tartrate inhaler may vary from patient to patient, and should be determined by a healthcare professional based on individual needs and circumstances.

Comparison with Racemic Albuterol

• Levalbuterol has been shown to provide greater bronchodilation than racemic albuterol, particularly in patients with severe asthma 4, 5.
• Studies have also suggested that levalbuterol may have a better therapeutic index than racemic albuterol, with reduced beta-mediated adverse effects 3, 4.
• The (S)-albuterol component of racemic albuterol may have detrimental effects on pulmonary function, which can be avoided with the use of levalbuterol 4, 5.

Clinical Implications

• The use of levalbuterol tartrate inhaler may be preferred over racemic albuterol in certain patients, particularly those with severe asthma or those who experience adverse effects with racemic albuterol 4, 5.
• Healthcare professionals should consider the individual needs and circumstances of each patient when determining the optimal dose and treatment regimen for levalbuterol tartrate inhaler 3, 4, 5.