Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff is a β-agonist bronchodilator used in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is a long-acting β-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that is an active isomer of albuterol, which belongs to a family of drugs called sympathomimetics. Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff helps to relax the muscles in the airways, which helps widen the airways resulting in decreased airway obstruction.
Uses
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff is used in the long-term management of asthma and COPD to improve air flow to the lungs. It is also used to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) in people with asthma, and to treat wheezing, shortness of breath, and other symptoms of airway obstruction in people with COPD.
Mechanism of action
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff works by stimulating β-adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle. This causes relaxation of the airways and improved airflow.
How long does it take to work?
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff begins to work within minutes of inhalation, with peak therapeutic effect at approximately 30 minutes.
Absorption
The absorption of levalbutamol is rapid and the drug is completely absorbed within 10 minutes after inhalation.
Route of elimination
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff is eliminated primarily through metabolic processes in the liver.
Dosage
The recommended dose of levalbutamol is 200 mcg twice daily for adults and adolescents with asthma, and 500 mcg twice daily for adults and adolescents with COPD.
Administration
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff is available as an inhaler, and should be inhaled directly into the mouth, or with a spacer device.
Side effects
The most common side effects of levalbutamol are headache, throat irritation, nausea, and dizziness.
Toxicity
Acute overdose of levalbutamol can result in restlessness, palpitations, and increased blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate.
Precaution
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff should not be used in people with hypersensitivity to sympathomimetic amines, medical conditions such as severe cardiac arrhythmia, tachycardia, or hypertension, or people with hyperthyroidism or diabetes.
Interaction
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you are taking before using levalbutamol.
Disease Interaction
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff may interact with certain conditions or diseases. Tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have before using levalbutamol.
Drug Interactions
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you are taking before using levalbutamol.
Food Interactions
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff does not typically interact with foods. However, people with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels more closely while taking levalbutamol.
Pregnancy Use
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Lactation Use
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff is excreted in human milk and should be used with caution in lactating women.
Acute Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose of levalbutamol include restlessness, palpitations, increased blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic.
Contraindication
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff should not be used in people with hypersensitivity to sympathomimetic amines, medical conditions such as severe cardiac arrhythmia, tachycardia, or hypertension, or people with hyperthyroidism or diabetes.
Use Directions
Follow the directions for using levalbutamol exactly. Do not use it more often or use more of it than prescribed. Do not stop taking levalbutamol without talking to your doctor first.
Storage Conditions
Store levalbutamol at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, moisture and heat.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of levalbutamol is 3.2 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of levalbutamol is approximately 3-4 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of levalbutamol is approximately 4 mL/min/kg.
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff
1. What is Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff?
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff (also called Levalbuterol) is a bronchodilator used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps relax airway muscles and improve breathing.
2. How does Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff work?
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff selectively stimulates beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, leading to smooth muscle relaxation and bronchodilation, which helps open up the airways.
3. What conditions is Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff used to treat?
Asthma
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Bronchospasm
Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
4. What forms does Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff come in?
Inhaler
Nebulizer solution
Tablet
Syrup
5. How should Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be used?
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff is usually taken via inhalation using a nebulizer or inhaler. The dosage and frequency depend on the severity of the condition.
6. What is the usual dosage for adults?
Inhaler: 90 mcg per puff, 1-2 puffs every 4-6 hours
Nebulizer: 0.63 mg or 1.25 mg every 6-8 hours
7. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be used in children?
Yes, it is prescribed for children, but the dosage is adjusted based on age and weight.
8. What is the difference between Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff and Salbutamol?
Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff is the active "R-enantiomer" of Salbutamol, which is believed to cause fewer side effects like tremors and palpitations while maintaining the same bronchodilation effect.
9. How quickly does Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff work?
It starts working within 5-15 minutes, and its effects last for 4-6 hours.
10. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be used for an acute asthma attack?
Yes, it is a fast-acting bronchodilator and is used for quick relief during asthma attacks.
11. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be used for long-term asthma management?
It is mainly a rescue medication. Long-term management usually involves corticosteroids or other controller medications.
12. What are the common side effects of Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff?
Tremors
Palpitations
Nervousness
Headache
Dizziness
13. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff cause allergic reactions?
Yes, though rare, allergic reactions such as rashes, swelling, and difficulty breathing can occur.
14. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff cause high blood pressure?
It may cause a temporary increase in heart rate and blood pressure, but this is usually mild.
15. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your schedule.
16. Can I overdose on Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff?
Yes, overdose symptoms include severe tremors, fast heartbeat, chest pain, and seizures. Seek immediate medical help in case of overdose.
17. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be used for COPD?
Yes, it is often used to relieve symptoms of COPD, such as shortness of breath.
18. Can I use Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff daily?
Yes, but frequent use may indicate poor asthma control, and your doctor may adjust your medication.
19. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be used with steroids?
Yes, it is often combined with corticosteroids for better asthma and COPD management.
20. Can pregnant women take Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff?
It is used if the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult your doctor before using it during pregnancy.
21. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be used during breastfeeding?
It can pass into breast milk in small amounts, so consult your doctor before use.
22. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff cause insomnia?
Yes, since it stimulates the nervous system, it may cause trouble sleeping.
23. Is Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff addictive?
No, but overuse can lead to reduced effectiveness over time.
24. Can I drink alcohol while using Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff?
Alcohol may increase side effects like dizziness, so it is best to avoid it.
25. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be taken with other asthma medications?
Yes, it is often used with inhaled steroids or other long-acting bronchodilators.
26. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be used for exercise-induced asthma?
Yes, using an inhaler 15-30 minutes before exercise can help prevent asthma symptoms.
27. What should I do if Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff doesn’t work?
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist despite using the prescribed dose.
28. Can Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff be used in nebulizers?
Yes, it is available as a nebulizing solution for inhalation therapy.
29. Does Brodil Levo Inhaler 50 mcg/puff cause weight gain?