Side Effects of Levalbuterol

In clinical trials of levalbuterol, side effects that were most commonly seen included viral infections, runny nose, and nervousness. Common side effects in children included headaches, sore throat, and fever. Although most people tolerate the drug without problems, you should notify your healthcare provider immediately if serious side effects of levalbuterol occur, such as signs of an allergic reaction, breathing problems that are getting worse, or an irregular heart rhythm.

 

Side Effects of Levalbuterol: An Introduction

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

Common Side Effects of Levalbuterol

Levalbuterol has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. As a result, 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 side effects in adults and adolescents included:
 
  • Viral infections -- in up to 12.3 percent of people
  • An irritated or runny nose -- up to 11.1 percent
  • Nervousness -- up to 9.6 percent
  • Shakiness (tremors) -- up to 6.8 percent
  • A sinus infection -- up to 4.2 percent
  • Flu symptoms (such as chills or fever) -- up to 4.2 percent
  • Coughing -- up to 4.1 percent.
     
In children (ages 6 to 11), common side effects included:
 
  • Headaches -- in up to 11.9 percent of children
  • A sore throat -- up to 10.4 percent
  • An irritated or runny nose -- up to 10.4 percent
  • Fever -- up to 9.1 percent
  • Asthma that becomes worse -- up to 9.1 percent
  • A viral infection -- up to 9 percent
  • A rash -- up to 7.5 percent
  • Accidental injury -- up to 6.1 percent
  • Diarrhea -- up to 6 percent.
     
(Side Effects of Levalbuterol Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;