Generic medicine

Levosalbutamol: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Levosalbutamol is indicated for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adults, adolescents, and children 6 years of age and older with reversible obstructive airway disease and more.

Forms:TabletSyrupNebuliser Solution

About Levosalbutamol

Indications of Levosalbutamol

Levosalbutamol is indicated for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adults, adolescents, and children 6 years of age and older with reversible obstructive airway disease, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

  • Established/FDA-approved use: Relief (rescue therapy) of acute bronchospasm associated with asthma and COPD.
  • Guideline-supported use: As a reliever medication used on an as-needed basis alongside maintenance inhaled corticosteroid therapy in asthma management guidelines.
  • Prophylactic use: Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm when administered shortly before exertion.

Levosalbutamol is a bronchodilator only; it does not treat the underlying airway inflammation and is not a substitute for anti-inflammatory therapy such as inhaled corticosteroids in persistent asthma.

Dosage & Administration of Levosalbutamol

Nebuliser Solution

Age groupDoseFrequency
Children 6-11 years0.31 mg (may increase to 0.63 mg if needed)Three times daily, by nebulization
Adolescents and adults (≥12 years)0.63 mg, increased up to 1.25 mg in severe casesThree times daily (every 6-8 hours)

Metered-Dose Inhaler

  • Relief of acute bronchospasm: 1-2 puffs (approx. 50 mcg/puff), repeated as needed; maximum 8 puffs in 24 hours.
  • Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm: 2 puffs approximately 15 minutes before exercise or anticipated allergen exposure.

Doses should be individualized to the lowest effective dose. An increasing need for Levosalbutamol indicates deteriorating asthma control and requires medical reassessment.

Side Effects of Levosalbutamol

The most commonly reported side effects of Levosalbutamol include:

  • Tremor (especially of the hands), nervousness, and headache
  • Palpitations, tachycardia, and chest pain
  • Dizziness, fatigue, and insomnia
  • Muscle cramps
  • Rhinitis and, in children, asthma exacerbation

Less commonly, Levosalbutamol can cause hypokalemia (particularly with high or frequent doses), and rarely, paradoxical bronchospasm or hypersensitivity reactions (see Precautions and Warnings and Contraindications). Seek prompt medical attention for chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or worsening breathing difficulty after use.

Contraindications of Levosalbutamol

Levosalbutamol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to levosalbutamol, racemic salbutamol, or any component of the formulation. Prior hypersensitivity reactions have included urticaria, angioedema, rash, bronchospasm, and anaphylaxis.

Frequently Asked Questions about Levosalbutamol

What is Levosalbutamol used for?

Levosalbutamol is used to relieve and prevent bronchospasm (airway narrowing) in people with asthma or COPD, and to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm when taken shortly before physical activity.

How is Levosalbutamol different from salbutamol (albuterol)?

Levosalbutamol is the purified, active (R)-enantiomer of racemic salbutamol. It is proposed to provide similar bronchodilator benefit while reducing exposure to the inactive (S)-enantiomer, which some studies suggest may otherwise contribute to certain side effects, though clinical superiority over salbutamol has not been definitively established for all patients.

Can Levosalbutamol be used during pregnancy?

Levosalbutamol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as adequate controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Poorly controlled asthma itself poses risks to mother and baby, so a physician should be consulted to weigh the benefits and risks before use.

What should I do if I need Levosalbutamol more often than usual?

Needing Levosalbutamol more frequently than prescribed, or needing it every day, can be a sign that your asthma or COPD is not well controlled. Do not simply increase the dose or frequency on your own; contact your physician promptly for reassessment of your treatment plan.

What are the common side effects of Levosalbutamol?

Common side effects of Levosalbutamol include tremor, nervousness, headache, palpitations, fast heartbeat, dizziness, and muscle cramps. Most are mild and dose-related. Seek medical attention if you experience chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or worsening breathing difficulty.

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Levosalbutamol?

An overdose of Levosalbutamol can cause a fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, tremor, seizures, and low potassium levels. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center right away.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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