Side Effects of Levalbuterol HFA

Common side effects of levalbuterol HFA that have been reported by both adults and children include irritated or runny nose, sore throat, and worsening asthma. Side effects seen in young children ages 4 to 11 include vomiting, bronchitis, and accidental injury. While levalbuterol HFA side effects are generally minor and do not require medical attention, some problems should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. Talk to your healthcare provider if you develop any signs of an allergic reaction, an irregular heart rhythm, or high blood pressure.

 

Levalbuterol HFA Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with levalbuterol HFA (Xopenex HFA®). However, not everyone who uses the inhaler will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate levalbuterol HFA well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can be easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with levalbuterol HFA. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of levalbuterol HFA side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Levalbuterol HFA

Levalbuterol HFA has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials in which a group of people taking the drug have side effects documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common levalbuterol HFA side effects in adults and adolescents included:
 
  • Worsening asthma -- in up to 9.4 percent of people
  • Sore throat -- up to 7.9 percent
  • Irritated or runny nose -- up to 7.4 percent
  • Pain -- up to 4 percent
  • Dizziness -- up to 2.7 percent.
     
In children (ages 4 to 11), common side effects included:
 
  • Vomiting -- in up to 10.5 percent of children
  • Accidental injury -- up to 9.2 percent
  • Sore throat -- up to 6.6 percent
  • Bronchitis -- up to 2.6 percent.
     
(Side Effects of Levalbuterol HFA Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;