- Proventil (Schering-Plough)
- Ventolin (GlaxoSmithKline)
- ProAir (Teva Specialty Pharmaceuticals)
- Xopenex (Sepracor)
Generic versions of albuterol, the drug name of the medicine in Proventil, Ventolin, and ProAir, are widely available.
The generic name of Xopenex is levalbuterol, but generic versions are not available.
Beta2 adrenergic agonists are a type of bronchodilator, which are medicines that open up air passages and help make breathing easier.
People with asthma and other lung disease use beta2 adrenergic agonists in combination with other medicines to improve breathing and control wheezing. Studies have shown that these bronchodilators help improve lung function in people with cystic fibrosis who are 6 years old and older.
People who are allergic to albuterol or levalbuterol should not use this type of bronchodilator.
Beta2 adrenergic agonists are inhaled medications. They can either be taken by using a machine called a nebulizer that aerosolizes the medication, or by using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). Whichever method is used, proper technique must be followed to make sure that the medication is effective.
- Both the nebulizer solution and MDIs should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 59 to 77 F.
- Nebulizer solution comes in individual dose vials. Once the vials have been opened, any unused solution should be discarded. MDIs should be discarded 6 months after their initial use.
Some common side effects of beta2 adrenergic agonists include:
- Feeling shaky or jittery
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Nausea
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
- Hives
- Swelling or tingling of the throat, lips, mouth, or face
- Chest pain or tightness
Bronchospasm: Rarely, beta2 adrenergic agonists can cause the airway to spasm and close, rather than open. This condition is potentially life threatening. If sudden and severe trouble breathing occurs, seek immediate medical attention.
Potassium deficiency and cardiac arrhythmias: Long-term use of beta2 adrenergic agonists can lead to potassium deficiency and/or abnormal heart rhythms. Talk to your doctor if you experience:
- Muscle cramps or weakness
- Tingling or numbness
- Unusual heart beat
Before using, tell your doctor if you:
- Have a heart condition, high blood pressure, or diabetes
- Take any other medications
A 30-day supply of albuterol costs $15 to $50, depending on dose and formulation. It is covered by most insurance plans. If you do not have insurance, or your insurance does not cover albuterol, you may qualify for assistance from the following programs:
- Ventolin HFA assistance from GSK For You
- Proventil HFA assistance from the Schering-Plough Cares Patient Assistance Program
- Proair HFA assistance from the Teva Assistance Program
A 30-day supply of Xopenex costs about $100. If you do not have insurance, or your insurance does not cover Xopenex, you may be able to qualify for Sepracor’s Patient Assistance Progam.
Source:
Flume, P., et al. “Cystic Fibrosis Pulmonary Guidelines: Chronic Medications for Maintenance of Lung Health”. Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2007. 176: 957-969. 31 August 2008.
