Levalbuterol

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Levalbuterol (brand name Xopenex) — Bronchodilator; Short-acting beta-2 agonist.

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Bronchodilator.
• Pharmacologic class: Short-acting beta-2 agonist.

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Active isomer of albuterol with similar bronchodilation.
• Onset / peak / duration: Onset minutes; duration 3 to 6 hours.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Similar to albuterol; no routine level.

Clinical use

• Indications: Bronchospasm, asthma, COPD.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: Inhaler or nebulized every 6 to 8 hours.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Frequent use signals poor control.

Safety

• Contraindications: Hypersensitivity; cardiac caution.
• Black box warning: None.
• Interactions: Same as albuterol.
• Pregnancy / lactation: Use if needed.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Tremor, tachycardia, nervousness.
• Serious effects to report: Paradoxical bronchospasm, chest pain.
• Antidote / reversal: Supportive care.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Lung sounds, heart rate, respiratory status.
• Interventions during therapy: Assess relief; bronchodilator before steroid.
• Monitor: Respiratory status, heart rate.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Improved breathing.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Rescue use; report increasing need.
• Notify provider if: No relief, chest pain, more frequent use.
• Administration tips: Same technique as albuterol.