Levolin Inhaler

Description

About Levolin Inhaler

Levolin Inhaler is a prescription metered-dose inhaler containing levalbuterol (levosalbutamol), typically 50 mcg per puff, made by Cipla Limited, used for quick relief of wheezing, coughing and breathlessness in asthma and COPD. Each canister provides 200 metered doses. It is a short-acting “reliever” or “rescue” inhaler that works like the US brand Xopenex HFA, although Levolin itself is an Indian brand rather than the US product.

How does it work?

Each puff sends levalbuterol, the active form of albuterol (salbutamol), directly into the airways, where it relaxes the tightened muscle around the breathing tubes. Relief usually starts within 5 to 10 minutes and lasts around 4 to 6 hours. Because the dose goes straight to where it is needed, only a tiny amount enters the bloodstream compared with a tablet.

How to use Levolin Inhaler

1. Take off the cap and check the mouthpiece is clean. If the inhaler is new or has not been used for several days, shake it and release a few test sprays into the air, away from your face.
2. Shake well, sit or stand up straight and breathe out gently, away from the mouthpiece.
3. Close your lips around the mouthpiece, begin breathing in slowly and press down on the canister once at the same moment.
4. Keep inhaling slowly and deeply, then hold your breath for about 10 seconds, or as long as is comfortable.
5. If a second puff is prescribed, wait about 30 to 60 seconds, shake again and repeat.
6. Replace the cap. Once a week, remove the canister, rinse the plastic holder under warm running water and leave it to air dry.

A spacer makes the inhaler easier to use and gets more medicine into the lungs, especially for children and for anyone who finds it hard to press and breathe in at the same time.

How much should I use?

The usual dose for adults and children aged 4 and over is 1 or 2 puffs every 4 to 6 hours when needed; do not exceed what your doctor has advised. If you need it more often, or each dose helps for a shorter time than before, your condition is getting worse and needs prompt review. Relying on a reliever more than twice a week suggests you may need a daily preventer, such as Foracort Inhaler or Budecort Inhaler, which your doctor can prescribe.

Keeping track of doses

The canister may keep spraying after its 200 labeled puffs, but the amount of medicine in each puff is no longer reliable. Keep a tally or write the start date on the box, and reorder before you run out. Carry the inhaler with you at all times, and consider a spare for school, work or travel.

What are the side effects?

Side effects are usually mild because the dose is small: slight shakiness, a quicker heartbeat, nervousness, headache, throat irritation or a runny nose. Rarely, an inhaler causes paradoxical bronchospasm, in which the airways tighten immediately after a puff. If that happens, or if you get chest pain, a racing or irregular pulse, or swelling of the face or throat, stop using it and seek emergency care.

Cautions and interactions

Let your doctor know about heart disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes or seizures. Beta-blockers such as propranolol can block the inhaler’s effect, diuretics can lower potassium further, and MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants can increase effects on the heart. Short-acting relievers of this type are widely used during pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed, but talk to your doctor about your own situation.

Pack sizes and storage

Each inhaler holds 200 metered doses and is sold singly or in packs of 3 or 6, from $7. Keep the Levolin canister below 86°F (30°C), out of strong sun and never in freezing conditions. It is pressurized: never puncture it or place it near a flame or heater, even when it seems empty.

Frequently asked questions

Is it the same as an albuterol inhaler?

It works the same way but contains only the active half of albuterol, so the dose per puff is lower. Some people feel less jittery with it, although studies show only small differences.

What if I struggle with an aerosol inhaler?

Levolin Rotacaps 100 mcg are a breath-activated powder alternative.

Where can I learn more about inhalers?

Read our overview of asthma inhaler types.

Provided for general education. Levolin Inhaler is a prescription medicine; ask your doctor or pharmacist to check your technique and dose.