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Levosalbutamol (Levolin): uses, side effects & brands
Levosalbutamol is a reliever inhaler/nebule that opens the airways quickly. It belongs to the Bronchodilator & inhaled steroid (extra) group. These open the airways or reduce airway inflammation in asthma and COPD.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Bronchodilator & inhaled steroid (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Quick relief of wheeze and breathlessness in asthma
- Relief of breathlessness in COPD
- Preventing exercise-induced wheeze
- Nebulised for asthma attacks
Common brand names
- India: Levolin, Levosal
- Worldwide: Xopenex
Common side effects
- Shaky hands (tremor)
- Fast heartbeat or palpitations
- Nervousness
- Headache
Before taking it — precautions
- Tell your doctor about heart disease, irregular heartbeat or high blood pressure
- Tell your doctor about an overactive thyroid or diabetes, as sugar can rise
- Beta-blocker medicines (such as propranolol) can block its effect
When to see a doctor urgently
- Reliever not helping, or needed more often than usual (urgent)
- Chest pain or very fast, irregular heartbeat (urgent)
- Wheezing that gets worse right after using it (urgent)
Frequently asked questions
How is it different from salbutamol?
It contains only the active half of salbutamol. It works in a similar way; claims of fewer side effects are not consistently proven.
What does it mean if I need it more often?
Your asthma is not well controlled. See your doctor, who may add or increase a preventer.
Can children use it?
Yes, often through a spacer or nebuliser, as directed by the doctor.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.