Xopenex vs. Atrovent for COPD: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Xopenex (levalbuterol) and Atrovent HFA (ipratropium) are both used to help with breathing problems, but they work in different ways and treat different conditions. Xopenex is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) that helps relax the muscles in your lungs to open up your airways, making it easier to breathe. It's used for sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in people with asthma and is inhaled through a nebulizer. On the other hand, Atrovent is an anticholinergic medication and is used for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Xopenex is typically used three times a day, while Atrovent is used four times a day. Xopenex is available as a generic, while Atrovent is only available as a brand name medication. Common side effects of Xopenex include headache and sore throat, while Atrovent can cause a cough and dry mouth.

Levalbuterol

(Xopenex)

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ipratropium nasal spray

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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 Atrovent

Prescription only

Ipratropium nasal spray is a prescription nasal spray used to treat runny nose from allergies and from the common cold. Depending on the strength, it can be used in people ages 5 or 6 years and older. It's only available as a generic medication since the brand name, Atrovent, has been discontinued. Dosing for ipratropium nasal spray typically ranges from 2 sprays in each nostril, 2 to 4 times daily. Although most people experience few to no side effects while using ipratropium nasal spray, some people might have headache or nosebleeds during treatment.