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Xopenex |
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What is Xopenex and why is it prescribed? Xopenex is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles in the walls of the lungs' many tiny airways (bronchioles), allowing them to expand so you can get more air. It is prescribed for asthma. If your prescribed dosage of Xopenex does not provide relief, or your symptoms become worse, consult your doctor immediately. How should you take Xopenex? Follow your doctors directions for taking Xopenex. Do not use more Xopenex than prescribed. Increasing the number of doses can be dangerous and may actually make your asthma worse. Xopenex should be taken only with an inhalation device called a nebulizer. Do not add any other drugs to the nebulizer without first asking your doctor. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. Then take any remaining doses for that day at equally spaced intervals. Never take a double dose. Store unopened vials of Xopenex inhalation solution in their protective foil pouch at room temperature, away from light and excessive heat. Once the foil pouch has been opened, the vials should be used within 1 to 2 weeks. Once a vial has been opened, the contents should be used immediately or discarded. The solution should be colorless. If not, throw the vial out. Are there any Xopenex side effects? Xopenex side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Xopenex side effects may include cough, flu symptoms, nervousness, runny nose, sinus inflammation, tremors, and viral infection. Less common Xopenex side effects may include anxiety, back or chest pain, chills, decreased sense of touch in the hands, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, dry throat, eye itch, fainting, indigestion, gastrointestinal problems, high blood pressure, increased asthma symptoms, insomnia, leg cramps, low blood pressure, migraine headache, muscle aches, nasal swelling, nausea, pain, rapid or abnormal heartbeat, sweating, swollen lymph nodes, tingling or burning skin, vomiting, and wheezing. Xopenex side effects in children may include diarrhea, fever, headache, hives, increased asthma symptoms, muscle pain, rash, runny nose, sore throat, swollen glands, viral infection, and weakness. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Xopenex? If Xopenex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Xopenex should be used cautiously, if at all, with other bronchodilators such as Proventil, Ventolin, or Primatene Mist. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Xopenex with Antidepressant drugs classified as MAO inhibitors (Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate) or tricyclics (Elavil and Tofranil), Beta blockers (such as Inderal, Lopressor, and Tenormin), Digoxin (Lanoxin), or Diuretics that lower your potassium levels (such as Lasix and HydroDIURIL). Are there any 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. 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. |
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