Compare Xopenex vs. Advair

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Makes it easier to breathe if you have asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema.

Xopenex (levalbuterol) inhaler is very effective at relieving acute asthma attakcs in more moderate to severe airway conditions, but is more expensive.

Prevents breathing problems.

Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol) combines two medicines into one inhaler, but it might be expensive.

3.8/ 5 average rating with 799 reviewsforAdvair
Upsides
  • Xopenex (levalbuterol) works within minutes to help you breathe easier when you have breathing difficulty or an attack, especially in more severe conditions.
  • The inhaler can be used in children as young as 4 years old while the nebulizer solution can be used in children 6 years and older.
  • Xopenex (levalbuterol) may have less side effects such as rapid heartbeat than albuterol.
  • It is available as a generic.
  • The nebulizer solution is a good option for children and adults who have difficulty using a handheld inhaler.
  • 2-in-1 medicine is more effective together than alone.
  • The diskus is used to treat both COPD and asthma.
Downsides
  • Xopenex (levalbuterol) is only relieves immediate symptoms and doesn't work to prevent future attacks, unlike maintenance medicines.
  • May not be the best option if you have a history of seizures, heart problems, thyroid problems or diabetes.
  • Xopenex (levalbuterol) is similar to albuterol, but it can be more expensive, especially the nebulizer solution.
  • Children might find the inhaler and nebulizer difficult to use. Parents or adults may need to help children use this medicine.
  • Unlike albuterol, Xopenex (levalbuterol) nebulizer solution cannot be mixed with other nebulized medicines.
  • Take it daily and consistently for the best results. It is not for on-demand treatment of wheezing or asthma attacks.
  • Rinse your mouth with water after each inhalation to avoid fungal infections of the mouth.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Inhaler
  • Nebulizer solution
  • Inhaler
Price
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Reviews
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799 reviews so far
66%
saidit'sworth it
48%
saiditworked well
11%
saidit'sa big hassle

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Side effects
7possible side effects
  • Vomiting
    11%
  • Asthma symptoms
    9%
  • Accidental injury
    9%
  • Sore throat
    8%
  • Stuffy nose
    7%
  • Dizziness
    3%
  • Bronchitis
    3%
See more detailed side effects
15possible side effects
  • Lung infection
    27%
  • Sore throat
    13%
  • Headaches
    12%
  • Lung inflammation
    7%
  • Hoarseness
    5%
  • Sinus inflammation
    4%
  • Colds and flu
    4%
  • Nausea and vomiting
    4%
  • Stomach upset
    4%
  • Diarrhea
    4%
  • Muscle and joint pain
    4%
  • Stomach flu
    3%
  • Fungal infections
    3%
  • Cough
    3%
  • Bronchitis
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Sudden lung spasms
    • First use of a new vial
  • Heart problems
    • History of heart problems
    • High blood pressure
  • Increased side effects
  • Worsening of asthma
  • Allergic reactions
  • Low potassium levels
    • Medicines that lower potassium levels
    • Taking certain diuretics
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Increased risk of death
    • Asthma
    • Children under 18
  • Increased risk of infections
    • History of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
    • COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
    • Age greater than 65 years
  • Mouth and throat infection
    • Not rinsing mouth after use
    • Higher dose of the corticosteroid medication contained in Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol)
  • Asthma attack
  • Heart disease
    • High blood pressure
    • Heart failure
    • Heart beat problems
    • Taking more Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol) than recommended
  • Serious allergic reaction
    • Milk allergy
See more detailed risks and warnings