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.

PHENYLEPHRINE - INJECTION

(fen-ill-EFF-rin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Neo-Synephrine

Uses

This medication is used to maintain blood pressure in conditions where the pressure is low (e.g., shock, anesthesia). It is also used to prolong anesthesia, or to treat certain heart rhythm problems (PSVT).

OTHER

Uses

This drug may also be used for painful, prolonged erections in men (priapism).

How To Use

This medication is given by vein (IV), into a muscle (IM) or under the skin (SC) as directed. The dilution and dose depend on the condition treated and how much fluid can be safely given. Make sure needles and any medical supplies are stored safely and disposed of properly.

Side Effects

Headache, nausea, or vomiting may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: chest pain, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, dizziness, mental/mood changes, convulsions, tingling, or numb hands/feet, pain/redness at the injection site. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (such as a sulfite allergy), severe high blood pressure, heart/blood vessel disease, blood clots, asthma, liver disease, intestinal problems, thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism). This medication may contain sulfites, which infrequently cause allergic reactions, especially in asthmatics. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly as this group may be more sensitive to phenylephrine effects. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially of: phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine), beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline), guanethidine, methyldopa, alpha blockers (e.g., prazosin, doxazosin), atropine, certain ergots (e.g., ergonovine), "water pills" (diuretics), drugs hastening childbirth (oxytocics), rauwolfia alkaloids (e.g., reserpine), sympathomimetics (adrenaline-like drugs such as epinephrine). 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. Symptoms of overdose may include tingling or numbness of the hands or feet, irregular heartbeat.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

Not applicable.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 36 and 86 degrees F (2-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Discard any unused portion of the ampule or cartridge.