Levolin Rotacaps 100 Mcg

Description

About Levolin Rotacaps 100 mcg

Levolin Rotacaps 100 mcg is a prescription dry powder inhalation capsule containing 100 mcg of levalbuterol (levosalbutamol), made by Cipla Limited, used for fast relief of wheezing and breathlessness in asthma and COPD. The capsules are not swallowed: each one is placed in a Rotahaler or Revolizer device, opened, and its powder breathed in.

How does it work?

The fine powder travels deep into the airways as you inhale. There, levalbuterol, the active form of albuterol (salbutamol), relaxes the constricted muscle so the airways open. Relief typically begins within minutes and lasts about 4 to 6 hours. Because the device is powered by your own breath, there is no need to time a press of a canister with breathing in.

How to use Levolin Rotacaps

1. Make sure your hands and the device are completely dry.
2. Open the device and place one capsule in the chamber as the device leaflet shows.
3. Close the device and twist or press it to open the capsule.
4. Breathe out fully, turning your head away from the mouthpiece.
5. Seal your lips around the mouthpiece and breathe in quickly and deeply.
6. Take the device out of your mouth and hold your breath for up to 10 seconds before breathing out gently.
7. Look inside: if powder remains, inhale again. Throw away the empty shell.

How much to use

Use it exactly as prescribed. A common instruction is one capsule when symptoms appear, repeated no more often than every 4 to 6 hours. If you need it more often than usual, or it stops lasting as long, your asthma or COPD is getting worse and needs prompt review. Rotacaps relieve symptoms but do not control inflammation, so many people also need a steroid preventer such as Budecort Rotacap.

Is a dry powder inhaler right for you?

Rotacaps need a strong, fast in-breath to empty the capsule. They suit older children and adults, but not very young children or anyone too breathless to inhale forcefully during a severe attack. In those situations the Levolin Inhaler with a spacer, or Levolin Respules through a nebulizer, may work better. Our guide to the different asthma inhalers compares these devices.

Keep the capsules dry

• Leave capsules in the bottle until just before use, and close the cap tightly each time.
• Never store them in a steamy bathroom or a hot car; moisture makes the powder clump.
• Do not breathe out into the device, as the moisture can spoil the next dose.
• Clean the device regularly as its leaflet directs and make sure it is fully dry before the next use.

What are the side effects?

Some people notice brief tremor, palpitations, headache, throat irritation or a cough just after inhaling the powder. Rarely, the airways tighten straight after a dose (paradoxical bronchospasm), or an allergic reaction occurs. Seek emergency help if breathing worsens after using it, if you have chest pain or an irregular heartbeat, or if your face, lips or throat swell.

Cautions and interactions

Before using Levolin Rotacaps, mention any heart condition, raised blood pressure, thyroid overactivity, diabetes or epilepsy to your doctor. Beta-blockers such as propranolol can stop it from working and may worsen wheezing; diuretics can lower potassium; and MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants can strengthen effects on the heart. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss your reliever with your doctor, because well-controlled asthma is important for your baby too.

Pack sizes and storage

Each bottle holds 30 capsules; buy 1, 3 or 6 bottles, from $4.80. Store below 86°F (30°C) in a dry place, protected from light. A Rotahaler or Revolizer device may need to be bought separately.

Frequently asked questions

Can I swallow a Rotacap?

No. It only works when the powder is inhaled from the device.

Is 100 mcg similar to a 200 mcg albuterol capsule?

Roughly, because levalbuterol is the active half of albuterol. Your doctor can advise before any switch.

Where can I see other asthma treatments?

Visit the asthma category.

General information only, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Levolin Rotacaps 100 mcg is a prescription medicine; ask a doctor or pharmacist to show you the correct technique.