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Xopenex vs. Albuterol

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Levalbuterol (Xopenex) and albuterol (ProAir HFA, Ventolin HFA, and others) are both prescription medications. They are short-acting beta agonists (SABAs) used to treat and prevent sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in people with breathing problems like asthma. They work by relaxing the muscles in your lungs to open up your airways. Levalbuterol is typically every 6-8 hours as needed, whereas albuterol is typically every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Common side effects of both medications include sore throat and runny nose. Both medications can interact with similar drugs, such as blood pressure medications and antidepressants. Your prescriber can work with you to find the best option for you.

Levalbuterol

(Xopenex)

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Albuterol

 

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Summary for Xopenex

Prescription only

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.

Indications for Xopenex

  • Treatment or prevention of wheezing or tightening of airways in people ages 6 years and older with certain types of lung problems (e.g., asthma)

Pros and Cons for Xopenex

Pros

  • Works well for relieving wheezing or shortness of breath
  • Quickly opens up the airways
  • Can use for children as young as 6 years old

Cons

  • Takes about 5 to 15 minutes to take the whole dose
  • Need to use with a nebulizer machine, which isn't ideal for someone who is traveling
  • Need to inhale 3 times daily, so not a long-acting medication

Common Side Effects for Xopenex

Ages 12 years and older:

  • Viral infection (7-12%)
  • Runny nose (3-11%)
  • Nervousness (3-10%)

Ages 6 to 11 years:

  • Headache (8-12%)
  • Runny nose (6-10%)
  • Sore throat (3-10%)
  • Asthma (6-9%)
  • Viral infection (8-9%)
  • Rash (up to 8%)
  • Diarrhea (2-6%)

Warnings for Xopenex

  • Breathing problems
  • Heart problems
  • Allergic reactions
  • Low potassium in the blood
  • Only take as directed

Summary for Albuterol

Prescription only

Albuterol sulfate is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA). It's a rescue inhaler that treats or prevents sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in adults and children at least 4 years old with certain breathing problems, such as asthma. Albuterol is inhaled through the mouth using either an HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) or a dry powder inhaler. The typical dose is 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours as needed when you suddenly have trouble breathing. Albuterol side effects generally include sore throat, throat irritation, and infections.

Indications for Albuterol

  • Treatment or prevention of wheezing or tightening of airways in people ages 4 years and older with certain types of lung problems (e.g., asthma)
  • Prevention of exercise-induced asthma in people ages 4 years and older

Pros and Cons for Albuterol

Pros

  • Works within minutes to help you breathe easier when you have an asthma attack or trouble breathing
  • Only used as needed when you're short of breath or when you're about to exercise
  • Can be used by children as young as 4 years old
  • Available as two types of inhalers: HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) and dry powder inhaler

Cons

  • Might have to use the inhaler multiple times per day since it's a short-acting medication
  • Might be difficult for some people to use the inhaler properly
  • Should carry with you at all times so you can use it when you need to

Common Side Effects for Albuterol

Note: Side effects you might have can depend on your age, dose, the type of albuterol inhaler you're using, and how often you're using the inhaler.

Warnings for Albuterol

  • Breathing problems
  • Heart problems
  • Low potassium in the blood
  • Allergic reactions

Prices with our coupons for Xopenex vs. Albuterol

Price Card Drug Icon
Levalbuterol25 vials / 3ml of 1.25mg/3ml
$31.50$70.36
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Price Card Drug Icon
Albuterol1 hfa inhaler / 18g of 90mcg
$32.10$48.30
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