My son has used both, as have I, and this is the breakdown, per our neuro: Xoponex does not cross the blood-brain barrier like Albuterol does, so no shakes. In people who have issues that affect the brain (like Noah's AU) that is a BIG deal. It causes mood swings and hyperactivity, among other things. Someone posted on that very topic here last month. It can also cause various other manifestations of psychological problems, such as sleep disturbances.
In Texas the state health plan will cover Xoponex if you have tried Albuterol first, and your physician wants you to use the Xoponex for whatever reason. That's how Noah and I both got ours.
I also heard that Albuterol was supposed to be discontinued by the end of the year, something about the number of related deaths due to heart issues caused by the Albuterol.
I have to say though, I'm w/ every1 who thinks the Albuterol works better to clear the lungs; the Xoponex just doesn't have the kick that the Albuterol does.