As with many other medications,
Xopenex® (
levalbuterol hydrochloride) can cause problems. Some of the most common problems reported with Xopenex include:
- Viral infections
- An irritated or runny nose
- Nervousness
- Shakiness (tremors)
- A sinus infection
- Flu symptoms (such as chills or fever)
- Coughing.
If side effects do occur, they tend to be minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. However, there are some potentially serious problems with Xopenex that require immediate medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience problems such as:
- Breathing problems that are getting worse
- An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- A very fast heart rate (tachycardia)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Anxiety
- Signs of an allergic reaction.
Other Xopenex warnings and precautions apply to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as people who have certain
allergies (including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives). Also, you may not be able to take Xopenex if you have medical conditions such as high
blood pressure,
diabetes, or
epilepsy.