Levalbuterol, Structure, Mechanism of action, Drug Interactions, Therapeutic Uses, Adverse effects and Contraindications
Levalbuterol Levalbuterol is a medication used to treat or prevent bronchospasm in people with reversible obstructive airway disease, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is a bronchodilator, which means it works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, allowing for easier breathing. Levalbuterol is a selective beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist, similar to albuterol. However, levalbuterol is the purified form of albuterol and contains only the active enantiomer (R-enantiomer), whereas albuterol contains a mixture of the R and S enantiomers. The R-enantiomer is believed to have more bronchodilatory effects and fewer side effects compared to the S-enantiomer. Levalbuterol is typically administered through inhalation using a nebulizer or metered-dose inhaler. It works quickly, with effects starting within a few minutes and lasting for several hours. Levalbuterol is available under various brand names depending on the country and manufacturer. Some commo...