Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Xopenex (levalbuterol) and Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol) are both inhaled medications used to help with breathing problems, but they work in different ways and are used for different purposes. Xopenex is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) that quickly relaxes the muscles in your lungs to open up your airways, making it easier to breathe during episodes of sudden wheezing or shortness of breath. It's typically used three times a day and is available as a lower-cost generic. On the other hand, Advair is a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting beta agonist (LABA). It is used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is taken twice daily. Advair helps reduce inflammation and keeps airways open over a longer period. Unlike Xopenex, Advair is not used for sudden breathing problems. Common side effects of Xopenex include headache and sore throat, while Advair can cause upper respiratory infections and oral thrush.
Levalbuterol inhalation solution (also known by its brand name, Xopenex) is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA). It's used to treat and prevent sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in people with certain breathing problems, such as asthma. This medication is for adults and children ages 6 years and older. Levalbuterol (Xopenex) inhalation solution is inhaled through the mouth with a nebulizer machine. Side effects of this medication include headache, sore throat, and runny nose. It's available as a lower-cost generic.
Advair is a combination inhaler that contains fluticasone (an inhaled corticosteroid) and salmeterol (a long-acting beta agonist, or LABA). Advair Diskus is used for maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma in adults and children, where as Advair HFA is for asthma only. Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol) is inhaled through the mouth, typically 1 to 2 puffs twice daily. Some common side effects of this medication include upper respiratory tract infection, sore throat, and headache.
Ages 12 years and older:
Ages 6 to 11 years:
Advair Diskus:
Advair HFA:
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