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.

DOBUTAMINE - INJECTION

(doh-BYOU-tuh-mine)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Dobutrex

Uses

This medication is used to treat heart conditions. The medication provides additional pumping strength by stimulating the heart muscle.

How To Use

This drug is given by IV infusion under the supervision of your doctor, nurse and/or pharmacist. The medication is diluted to at least 50 ml fluid before use.

Side Effects

Headache, nausea or vomiting and restlessness may occur. Notify your doctor if any of these effects continue or become bothersome. Notify your doctor if any of the following effects occur: muscle cramps or weakness, chest pain, trouble breathing, dizziness, palpitations, rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: liver disease, any allergies, pheochromocytoma, irregular heartbeat/arrhythmias. 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 medication is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding to review risks.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any nonprescription or prescription medicines you take, especially of: antidepressants (esp. tricyclics), maprotiline, beta-blockers, digoxin, reserpine, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), methyldopa, guanethidine. Dobutamine cannot be mixed with alkaline solutions such as sodium bicarbonate. Several other advisories apply to mixing or administering this medication. The pharmacist can assist with any questions or further information. 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 loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, tremor, headache, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

Notes

Blood tests, particularly potassium and kidney function, are generally performed during treatment, as well as assessment of your heart and lung function and blood pressure.

Missed Dose

Follow instructions from your health care provider if you have problems with your IV infusion, or if treatment is interrupted.

Storage

Dobutamine diluted in IV solutions should be used within 24 hours. Freezing should be avoided. Refrigerate IV solutions until use. Pink discoloration is harmless if medication is used within proper time limits. Store away from moisture and light.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).