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.

PERFLUTREN LIPID MICROSPHERE SUSPENSION - INJECTABLE

(pur-FLOOT-rin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Definity

Uses

This medication is used just before certain medical tests of the heart (e.g., echocardiograms) to help diagnose heart problems. Perflutren improves the ability of doctors to evaluate heart problems and can help clarify results of earlier tests.

How To Use

Learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Inject this medication directly into a vein (IV bolus) or give over 5 to 15 minutes (IV infusion) in a saline solution usually just before the medical test; or use as directed by the doctor. After mixing the vial, if the product is not used within 5 minutes, gently turn the bottle upside down several times to make sure the suspension is mixed well before drawing into a syringe. Draw up the product suspension into a syringe by pulling back on the plunger; do not inject air into the vial. Doing so may inactivate the drug. This product should appear as a milky, white suspension. Before using, check this product visually for any unusual particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

Side Effects

Headache, nausea, or flushing may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occurs: back pain, redness/swelling/irritation at the injection site, chest pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat, fever, joint pain, tingling or numbness of the hands/feet, stomach pain, vomiting, vision or hearing problems, bruising. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, dizziness, swelling, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: other heart problems (e.g., childhood/congenital defects, pulmonary hypertension), previous heart procedures (e.g., cardiac shunt placement), lung problems (e.g., COPD or emphysema), any allergies (especially to fluorocarbons propellants). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use. 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

Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

Not applicable.

Storage

Before mixing, store in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C). Once mixed, the suspension is good for 12 hours at room temperature and stored in the original vial. Discard any unused portion of the vial.