Levalbuterol - Overview

Levalbuterol is a medication sometimes prescribed to people who need treatment for asthma. People who might need a levalbuterol prescription can use Push Health to connect with a medical provider who can prescribe levalbuterol tartrate, including generic inhalers and nebulizer solution, when appropriate to do so.

What Is Levalbuterol Used For?

Levalbuterol prescription medication is marketed under the brand name Xopenex. Levalbuterol is a short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) used used in the treatment and prevention of bronchospasm in people with asthma and other reversible obstructive airway disease. Levalbuterol is the active R-enantiomer of albuterol that works by relaxing the smooth muscle in the airways, rapidly improving airflow and relieving symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. It is available as:

• Xopenex HFA metered-dose inhaler (45 mcg per actuation)
• Nebulizer solution (various strengths)

Levalbuterol is a rescue (as-needed) medication, not a daily maintenance or controller inhaler. It is sometimes chosen for patients who experience bothersome side effects with albuterol, although overall clinical differences are generally modest.

Levalbuterol vs. Albuterol

Both levalbuterol and albuterol are effective short-acting beta agonists. Key practical differences include:

Feature	Levalbuterol	Albuterol
Active component	R-enantiomer only	Racemic mixture (R + S)
Cost	Generally higher	Significantly lower
First-line preference	Not usually preferred over albuterol	Typically preferred

Most patients can use either medication effectively. Cost and individual tolerability often guide the choice.

Levalbuterol - Dosage and Cost

As a Xopenex HFA inhaler, levalbuterol is often prescribed as 2 inhalations (90 mcg) every 4-6 hours as needed. In some patients, 1 inhalation every 4 hours may be sufficient but patients should not exceed the recommended frequency without consulting their medical provider. As a nebulizer solution, levalbuterol is often prescribed for people ages 12 and up as 0.63 mg three times daily (every 6-8 hours). For children, the levalbuterol nebulized solution may be prescribed as 0.31 mg three times daily (maximum usually 0.63 mg three times daily). Ultimately, the levalbuterol dosage and regimen used depends on the judgement of the prescribing medical provider and the health needs of the specific patient.

Generic levalbuterol HFA inhalers typically cost more than generic albuterol (often $30-$60+ depending on pharmacy and coupons). Nebulizer solution pricing varies. Prescription savings cards and insurance may reduce out-of-pocket costs. Levalbuterol is not available over the counter.

Can I Buy Levalbuterol Online?

Levalbuterol tartrate requires a prescription in order to be dispensed by a pharmacy in the United States. At this time, levalbuterol OTC is not available and one cannot simply buy levalbuterol online without first getting a levalbuterol prescription from a medical provider. People who might need a levalbuterol prescription, however, can use Push Health to connect with a medical provider who can prescribe levalbuterol tartrate medication, including generic levalbuterol inhalers, when appropriate to do so.

Levalbuterol - Side Effects

Levalbuterol prescription inhalers can cause side effects when used. Common side effects include tremor, nervousness, headache, dizziness, palpitations, throat irritation, rhinitis, nausea and vomiting. These effects are usually dose-related and tend to lessen with continued use.

Levalbuterol can cause cardiovascular effects which is why patients with heart disease, hypertension, or arrhythmias should use it with caution. At high doses, changes in potassium levels and blood glucose can occur. Overuse may signal worsening asthma and increases the risk of side effects. Levalbuterol should not be used by anyone with a known hypersensitivity to levalbuterol, racemic albuterol, or any component of the formulation. Discuss alcohol use, other medications, and medical history with a provider before starting treatment.

How to Get a Levalbuterol Prescription with Push Health

1. Complete a brief health intake. Answer questions about your breathing symptoms, asthma or COPD history, current medications, and whether you need a new prescription or a refill.
2. Connect with a licensed medical provider. A provider will review your information and determine whether levalbuterol is appropriate and which formulation (HFA inhaler or nebulizer) fits best. Same-day consultations are often available.
3. Receive your prescription electronically. If appropriate, the prescription is sent to the pharmacy of your choice - no office visit required.
4. Pick up your medication. Generic levalbuterol is available at most retail and delivery pharmacies.

No health insurance or subscription is required. Medical providers are available now.

More Levalbuterol Information

• Levalbuterol - Medline