HCPCS Procedure: Levalbuterol Inhalation Solution (J7612)

Name of the Procedure:

Common names: Levalbuterol, Xopenex
Technical/Medical term: Levalbuterol Inhalation Solution, FDA-approved final product, non-compounded, administered through durable medical equipment (DME), concentrated form, 0.5 mg (J7612)

Summary

Levalbuterol inhalation solution is a medication administered via a nebulizer to help open up the airways in the lungs. It is used primarily for people who have breathing problems such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Purpose

Levalbuterol is designed to help relax the muscles around the airways in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. It is used to treat or prevent bronchospasm in people with reversible obstructive airway disease.

Indications

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Coughing related to asthma or COPD
• Patients needing quick relief from breathing difficulties

Preparation

• There is typically no special preparation needed.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any other medications they are taking.
• A baseline assessment of lung function might be conducted before initiating treatment.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be instructed on how to use a nebulizer, a device that turns liquid medication into a fine mist.
2. The prescribed dose of levalbuterol solution will be placed in the nebulizer cup.
3. The patient will breathe in the mist through a mouthpiece or mask, a process which typically takes about 5-15 minutes.
4. No anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The inhalation process generally takes about 5-15 minutes per session.

Setting

This procedure can be done at home or in an outpatient clinic setting.

Personnel

• Training provided by healthcare professionals such as nurses or respiratory therapists for home administration.
• Supervision by a healthcare provider is required in a clinical setting.

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Nervousness
• Tremors
• Dizziness

Rare risks:

• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe allergic reactions

Management: Follow-up and immediate medical attention as needed.

Benefits

• Quick relief from symptoms of bronchospasm.
• Improved breathing function which can be felt within minutes.

Recovery

• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after using the medication.
• Follow-up appointments may be needed to monitor lung function and medication effectiveness.

Alternatives

• Other bronchodilators such as albuterol or inhaled corticosteroids.
• Cons of alternatives: Different side effect profiles, varying onset of action.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Patients breathe in the medicated mist and may feel immediate relief in their breathing.
• Post-procedure: Some may feel jittery or nervous, which typically subsides. Pain is not usually associated with this procedure.