Xopenex

Special warnings about Xopenex

There is a slight chance of developing an immediate, serious allergic reaction to Xopenex, with symptoms such as hives, rash, mouth and throat swelling, and bronchospasm (constricted airways and difficulty breathing). If this happens, or you experience bronchospasm alone, stop using Xopenex and call your doctor immediately.

If your asthma symptoms get worse despite Xopenex, call your doctor. He may need to add an anti-inflammatory steroid drug such as prednisone or beclomethasone to your treatment regimen.

Use Xopenex with caution if you have a heart condition, an irregular heartbeat, or high blood pressure. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any change in heartbeat, pulse, or blood pressure. Caution is also advised if you suffer from seizures, an overactive thyroid gland, or diabetes.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Xopenex

Xopenex should be used cautiously, if at all, with other bronchodilators such as Proventil, Ventolin, or Primatene Mist.

If Xopenex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Xopenex with the following:

Antidepressant drugs classified as MAO inhibitors (Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate) or tricyclics (Elavil and Tofranil)
Beta blockers (heart and blood pressure drugs) such as Inderal, Lopressor, and Tenormin
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Diuretics (water pills) that lower your potassium levels such as Lasix and HydroDIURIL

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Xopenex during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Xopenex appears in breast milk, but it's considered wise to either give up breastfeeding or discontinue the drug.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

For adults and children 12 and older, the usual starting dose is 0.63 milligrams 3 times a day by nebulizer, every 6 to 8 hours. Your doctor will increase the dose to 1.25 milligrams 3 times a day if you have severe asthma or the lower dose fails to provide relief.