LEVAFORM RESPULES 1.25 MG
LEVOSALBUTAMOL SULPHATE
What it does
Levosalbutamol is a medication used to help open the airways in the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
Commonly used for: asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:00:33 · updated 2026-07-26 13:42:49
About this medicine
Levosalbutamol is a medication used to help open the airways in the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
What it treats
- asthma
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
How it works
Levosalbutamol relaxes the muscles in the airways, allowing them to widen and improve airflow.
Who it's for
This medication is for people who have breathing problems such as asthma or COPD.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: levosalbutamol
BNF-referencedLevosalbutamol is a selective β2-adrenergic agonist used primarily in the management of asthma and other conditions involving bronchoconstriction. It promotes bronchodilation by specifically targeting β2 receptors in airway smooth muscle, leading to relaxation of the bronchial tubes and improved airflow. As a stereoisomer of salbutamol, it is designed to provide effective relief from acute shortness of breath while minimizing side effects associated with non-selective β-agonists.
Indications
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Bronchospasm
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Levosalbutamol activates β2 adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle, which are coupled to the Gs protein. This activation stimulates adenylate cyclase, resulting in increased levels of intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Elevated cAMP activates protein kinase A, which inhibits myosin phosphorylation and decreases intracellular calcium concentrations, leading to muscle relaxation. Additionally, increased cAMP levels can inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells in the airways, aiding in the management of asthma.
Pharmacodynamics
Levosalbutamol works by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle, thereby increasing airflow and alleviating symptoms of acute shortness of breath. It is effective in providing rapid relief from bronchospasm associated with conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of levosalbutamol include a rapid onset of action, typically within 15 minutes of administration, with a duration of effect lasting up to 6 hours. It is absorbed well following inhalation, with peak plasma concentrations reached quickly. The drug undergoes hepatic metabolism, primarily through conjugation, and is excreted mainly via the urine.
Adverse effects
- Tremor
- Headache
- Palpitations
- Tachycardia
- Hypokalaemia
- Nausea
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders
- Monitor potassium levels in patients receiving high doses or those with risk of hypokalaemia
Pregnancy
Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Levosalbutamol is excreted in breast milk, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from light and moisture.
Formulations
- Inhalation solution
- Inhaler
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: levosalbutamol
PubChem CID 123600Molecular formula: C13H21NO3
Mechanism of action
β2 adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle are Gs coupled and their activation by levosalbutamol leads to activation of adenylate cyclase and to an increase in the intracellular concentration of 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP). Increased cyclic AMP activates protein kinase A which itself inhibits the phosphorylation of myosin produces lower intracellular ionic calcium concentrations, inducing muscle relaxation. Increased cyclic AMP concentrations are also associated with the inhibition of the release of mediators from mast cells in the airways, potentially contributing to its benefit in asthma attacks.
Pharmacodynamics
It acts by relaxing smooth muscle in the bronchial tubes to increase air flow and relieve acute shortness of breath.
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.