Levophed Norepinephrine Bitartrate Injection 1 mg/mL Single-dose Vial 4 mL, 10/Box - Pfizer
(Note: We don’t Fill Personal Prescriptions)
How to Order:
Levophed, also known by its generic name Norepinephrine Bitartrate, is a sterile, non-pyrogenic solution intended for intravenous infusion. This medication comes in a single-dose vial containing 1 mg/mL of Norepinephrine Bitartrate, distributed in a 4 mL solution, professionally packaged by Pfizer Injectables.
Active Ingredient: Norepinephrine Bitartrate: 1 mg/mL
Dosage Form: Injection, for intravenous use
Concentration: 1 mg/mL
Volume:4 mL per vial
Indications:
Levophed is utilized primarily in the treatment of acute hypotension and shock to restore and maintain adequate blood pressure. It acts as a sympathomimetic amine with potent vasoconstrictive properties, increasing both the systolic and diastolic blood pressures.
Mechanism of Action:
Norepinephrine works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors, leading to peripheral vasoconstriction and increasing systemic vascular resistance, which raises blood pressure. It also exhibits beta-adrenergic activity that increases myocardial contractility and heart rate.
Administration:
Levophed is administered via intravenous infusion. Proper dilution and administration under the supervision of a healthcare professional are required to ensure safety and efficacy.
Storage:
Store at controlled room temperature, 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Protect from light and retain in the original carton until use to maintain product integrity.
Warnings and Precautions:
- Hypersensitivity: Use caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to norepinephrine.
- Vascular Extravasation: Proper intravenous administration technique must be employed as extravasation may cause tissue necrosis.
- Use in Patients with Ventricular Tachycardia: It should be used cautiously in patients with preexisting conditions such as ventricular tachycardia.
- Hypovolemia: Ensure adequate fluid replacement in patients with hypovolemia before initiating therapy.
Adverse Effects:
According to clinical use, common adverse effects include hypertension, bradycardia, arrhythmias, and ischemic injury due to potent vasoconstriction. Monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate is recommended during treatment.
Contraindications:
Levophed is contraindicated in patients with the following conditions:
- Hyperthyroidism: Patients with hyperthyroidism may experience increased sensitivity to the effects of norepinephrine.
- Hypersensitivity: Known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to norepinephrine or any component of the formulation.
- Mesenteric or Peripheral Vascular Thrombosis: Use with extreme caution as it may increase the risk of ischemic complications.
Drug Interactions:
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Concomitant use may potentiate the hypertensive effect of norepinephrine.
- Tricyclic Antidepressants: May also potentiate the pressor response.
- Cyclopropane or Halothane Anesthetics: Increase the risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias if used concurrently.
- Beta-Blockers: May exacerbate the hypertensive effects and reduce the therapeutic action of norepinephrine.
Use in Specific Populations:
- Pregnancy: Category C. It should only be used if clearly needed and the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus.
- Nursing Mothers: Caution should be exercised as it is unknown whether norepinephrine is excreted in human milk.
- Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients