Levalbuterol Mechanism and Adverse Effects

Questions and Answers

What is the classification of Levalbuterol?

Alpha blocker

Beta blocker

Calcium channel blocker

Beta agonist (correct)

What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of Levalbuterol?

Stimulates beta 2 receptors, resulting in relaxation of the smooth muscle in the lungs, uterus, and vasculature that supply skeletal muscle.

What are the indications for using Levalbuterol?

Acute bronchospasm or bronchospasm prophylaxis in patients with asthma.

Which of the following are adverse effects of Levalbuterol? (Select all that apply)

Hyperglycemia Signup and view all the answers

What contraindications should be considered when using Levalbuterol? (Select all that apply)

Angioedema Signup and view all the answers

What is the adult dosage for Levalbuterol via MDI?

2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours; for acute exacerbations, 4 to 8 inhalations every 20 minutes up to 4 hours, then 1 to 4 hours as needed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended pediatric dosage for children aged 4 to 12 years via MDI?

2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours; for acute exacerbations, 2 to 4 every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then 2 to 4 every 1 to 4 hours as needed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the pediatric dosage for children under 4 years via MDI?

Safe and effective use has not been established; for acute exacerbations, 2 to 4 puffs with valved holding chamber and face mask every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then 2 to 4 every 1 to 4 hours as needed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the usual adult dose of Levalbuterol via nebulizer?

Usually 0.63 mg 3 times a day; for acute exacerbations, 1.25 to 2.5 mg every 20 minutes for 3 doses then 1.25 to 5 mg every 1 to 4 hours as needed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the pediatric dose for ages 6 to 11 via nebulizer?

0.31 mg 3 times a day; for acute exacerbations, 0.075 to 0.15 mg/kg (max of 5 mg) every 1 to 4 hours. Signup and view all the answers

What is the pediatric dose for children under 6 via nebulizer?

Safe and effective use has not been established; for acute exacerbations, 1.25 to 2.5 mg every 20 minutes for 3 doses then 1.25 to 5 mg every 1 to 4 hours as needed. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Classification

Levalbuterol is classified as a beta agonist.

Mechanism of Action (MOA)

It stimulates beta 2 receptors, promoting smooth muscle relaxation in the lungs, uterus, and blood vessels supplying skeletal muscle.

Indications

Administered for acute bronchospasm or as prophylaxis in patients with asthma.

Adverse Effects

Common side effects include hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, palpitations, and sinus tachycardia.

Contraindications

Not recommended for patients with angioedema or sensitivity to albuterol or levalbuterol.
Caution advised for lactating patients, individuals with cardiovascular disorders, or those with cardiac arrhythmias.
Avoid in patients on sotalol, as it may hinder bronchodilation and increase the risk of bronchospasm, prolonged QT interval, and arrhythmias.

Adult Dosage (MDI)

Standard dosage: 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours.
For acute exacerbations: 4 to 8 inhalations every 20 minutes for up to 4 hours, then 1 to 4 hours as needed.

Pediatric Dosage (4 to 12 years, MDI)

Standard dosage: 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours.
For acute exacerbations: 2 to 4 inhalations every 20 minutes for 3 doses, followed by 2 to 4 every 1 to 4 hours as needed.

Pediatric Dosage (Under 4 years, MDI)

Safety and efficacy have not been established.
For acute exacerbations: 2 to 4 puffs using a valved holding chamber with a face mask every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then 2 to 4 every 1 to 4 hours as necessary.

Adult Dosage (Nebulizer)

Typical dosage: 0.63 mg administered three times daily.
For acute exacerbations: 1.25 to 2.5 mg every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then 1.25 to 5 mg every 1 to 4 hours as needed.

Pediatric Dosage (6 to 11 years, Nebulizer)

Standard dosage: 0.31 mg three times daily.
For acute exacerbations: 0.075 to 0.15 mg/kg (maximum 5 mg) every 1 to 4 hours.

Pediatric Dosage (Under 6 years, Nebulizer)

Safety and efficacy have not been established.
For acute exacerbations: 1.25 to 2.5 mg every 20 minutes for 3 doses, then 1.25 to 5 mg every 1 to 4 hours as needed.

Description

This quiz covers the classification, mechanism of action, indications, and contraindications of Levalbuterol, a beta agonist. Test your knowledge on its uses in treating bronchospasm and the potential side effects associated with it.