Levosalbutamol, also known as levalbuterol, is a short-acting β2 adrenergic receptor agonist used in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Evidence is inconclusive regarding the efficacy of levosalbutamol versus salbutamol or salbutamol-levosalbutamol combinations, though levosalbutamol is believed to have a better safety profile due to its more selective binding to β2 receptors (primarily in the lungs) versus β1 (primarily in the heart muscle).
The drug is the (R)-(−)-enantiomer of its prototype drug salbutamol. It is available in some countries in generic formulations from pharmaceutical companies including Cipla, Teva, and Dey, among others.
Structure:
Physicochemical Data:
IUPAC Name | 4-[(1R)-2-(tert-butylamino)-1-hydroxyethyl]- 2-(hydroxymethyl)phenol |
CAS Number | 34391-04-3 |
Molecular Formula | C13H21NO3 |
Molecular Mass | 239.315 g·mol−1 |
Melting Point | |
Density |
Pharmacokinetic Data:
Absorption | Inhalation delivers the medication directly into the airways and lungs, thereby minimizing side effects because of reduced systemic absorption of the inhaled medications. |
Volume of Distribution | Not Available. |
Protein Binding | Plasma protein binding is relatively low. |
Metabolism | Pure (R)-salbutamol formulation known as levosalbutamol is metabolized up to 12 times faster than (S)-salbutamol by the intestine. |
Route of Elimination | Excreted into the urine. |
Half-life | 3.3 – 4 hours. |
Clearance | Not Available. |
Toxicity | Not Available. |
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