Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

NOREPINEPHRINE BITARTRATE - INJECTION

(nor-ep-in-EFF-rin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Levophed

Uses

This medication is used for short-term control of low blood pressure.

How To Use

This medication is diluted in liquid and given continuously into a large vein (IV infusion), as directed by the doctor. Dosage is based on the patient's condition and response to treatment. Follow all instructions for proper dilution with the correct IV fluids. Consult the pharmacist. This medication should be checked visually for particles or discoloration before use. Do not use the liquid if it is pale pink, darker than pale yellow or if it contains particles.

Side Effects

Dizziness or weakness may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify the doctor promptly. Report promptly: headache, mental/mood changes. Very unlikely but report promptly: changes in skin appearance, pain/swelling at the injection site, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, changes in amount of urine, changes in vision, trouble breathing, chest pain, sweating. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell the doctor the patient's medical history, including: allergies (especially to sulfites), blood clots (e.g., peripheral vascular thrombosis), dehydration (hypovolemia), thyroid problems (especially hyperthyroidism). This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with the doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult the doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell the doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication the patient may use, especially of: anesthetics (e.g., cyclopropane, halothane), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline), heart drugs (including beta-blockers such as propranolol), guanethidine, methyldopa, atropine, antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine), "ergot" drugs (e.g., dihydroergotamine), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, imipramine). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor for side effects and response to treatment.

Missed Dose

If the dose is interrupted, contact your doctor immediately to re-establish dosing.

Storage

Store ampules at room temperatures up to 86 degrees F (30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Consult the pharmacist for details on dilution and stability with IV fluids. Discard any unused liquid.