Ready-to-Use Premixed Medications
Pharmaceuticals by Baxter offers practical and innovative medications in premixed ready-to-use IV formulations, which may help increase healthcare facility efficiency and support patient safety protocols.1,2

Featured Ready-to-Use Premix Products
Explore More Premixed Medications on our Catalog
Visit our U.S. Catalog for all available Baxter Premixed Medications and Pharmaceuticals.
Supporting operational, financial, and employee health of your organization
Experts and accrediting organizations recommend that to the maximum extent possible, Commercially Prepared Premixed parenteral products and unit dose syringes are used versus manually compounded sterile products.1,2
30%
Percentage of hospitals that experienced a patient event involving a compounding error over a 5-year period6
$600,000
Average annual cost increase per hospital due to preventable adverse drug events associated with injectable medications7*
*According to a 2012 study, inpatient preventable ADEs associated with injectable medications increased the annual U.S. payer costs by $2.7 billion to $5.1 billion, averaging $600,000 in extra costs per hospital.
1/400
Estimated number of injections that result in a preventable adverse drug event7
Learn about our Ready-to-Use products, including Frozen Premix and Critical Care medications
Baxter's manufacturer-prepared premixes are convenient and ready when you need them, potentially shortening the time between ordering and administration. This may allow you to spend more time with your patients.

Ready for Safety
- Consistent drug concentrations may help minimize medication errors associated with compounding1,2
- Barcoded for bedside scanning to help ensure the patient gets the right medication1

Ready for Efficiency
- Improved workflow by allowing on-demand availability of medication, which may help reduce the steps required to prepare medication for administration
- Supports inventory management and helps reduce waste4

Ready for Value
- Manufacturer-prepared premix medications have a shelf life of 9 to 24 months
- Proprietary Galaxy container technology—a non-PVC and non-DEHP system5—enables certain premix medicines to have an extended shelf life when stored at room temperature

Ready for Patient Care
- Designed for ready use, helping to reduce the risk of preventable medication errors in patients associated with compounding1,2
- Formulations that are shelf-stable at room temperature allow for storage in automated dispensing cabinets and closer to the patient
Three Premix Formats for Facility Versatility
Ready-to-Use (RTU) Medications
Baxter offers practical and innovative medications in premixed ready-to-use IV formulations, which may help increase healthcare facility efficiency and support patient safety protocols.1,2
Critical Care RTU Medications
Everywhere patients are treated, Baxter critical care, ready-to-use medications help minimize compounding errors1,2 that may turn routine care into urgent situations. For clinicians who routinely deliver urgent care, Baxter critical care ready-to-use medications may help reduce complexity.
Critical care medications are drugs that bear a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when they are used in error.3
Frozen Premixed Medications
The safety and reliability of a premix in a formulation that brings some chill to your workflow.
Premix Manufacturing Process Video
Watch the Manufacturing Video to discover how cGMP-compliant, patented, and proprietary Galaxy Premix System drug delivery platform is used for aseptically-filled, IV-infused drugs.
- Specifically designed for unstable drugs that would normally require compounding
- Sterile, closed-system container is collapsible, delivering the full labeled volume of drug solution without the need for a vented IV2 set, which may help reduce risks associated with additional steps or infusion pump alarms
- Flexible, shatterproof container that is safe and practical for transporting medications, reducing risk in critical situations
- Exclusive aseptic-filling technology increases the number of premix drug options, including those that would otherwise not be available due to the heat associated with terminal sterilization cycles
- Free of latex, PVC, and DEHP4
- Made in Round Lake, Illinois
Baxter Helps Meet Joint Commission Standards for Managing High Alert Medications
The Joint Commission requires hospitals to develop their own high alert medication list and implement a plan for their management.4 Baxter offers high alert medications in premix IV formulations, which may help reduce the associated risk related to high alert medications, while supporting your overall safety protocols and helping to increase hospital efficiency.1,2
Consider implementing premix medications in your facility as part of your risk reduction strategy. Commercially prepared premix IV medications are recommended to be used by ISMP and ASHP when available.1,2
Ready to see how Baxter’s High Alert Ready-to-Use Medications can fit into your workflow?

Transparency and Resiliency Badges from the Healthcare Industry Resilience Collaborative (HIRC)
The Healthcare Industry Resilience Collaborative (HIRC) is a consortium of industry suppliers and providers focused on creating a more transparent and resilient supply chain. Suppliers who receive the Badges demonstrate continuous effort and commitment to this focus.

Baxter’s Partnership Promise
For more than 90 years, Baxter has been focused on helping support patient care.
We are committed to partnering with healthcare facilities to help solve their most pressing challenges, including supporting patient safety, operational efficiencies and worker shortages.
ZOSYN (piperacillin and tazobactam) Injection
Indications and Important Risk Information
Indications
ZOSYN Injection is a combination of piperacillin, a penicillin-class antibacterial and tazobactam, a beta-lactamase inhibitor, indicated for the treatment of:
- Intra-abdominal infections in adult and pediatric patients 2 months of age and older
- Nosocomial pneumonia in adult and pediatric patients 2 months of age and older
- Skin and skin structure infections in adults
- Female pelvic infections in adults
- Community-acquired pneumonia in adults
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of ZOSYN Injection and other antibacterial drugs, ZOSYN Injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria.
Important Risk Information
- Contraindications: ZOSYN Injection is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to any of the penicillins, cephalosporins, or beta-lactamase inhibitors.
- Hypersensitivity Adverse Reactions: Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic/anaphylactoid) reactions (including shock) have been reported in patients receiving therapy with ZOSYN Injection. These reactions are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of penicillin, cephalosporin, or carbapenem hypersensitivity or a history of sensitivity to multiple allergens. If an allergic reaction occurs, ZOSYN Injection should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.
- Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions: ZOSYN Injection may cause severe cutaneous adverse reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. If patients develop a skin rash they should be monitored closely and ZOSYN Injection discontinued if lesions progress.
- Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH): Cases of HLH have been reported in pediatric and adult patients treated with ZOSYN Injection. Signs and symptoms of HLH may include fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly and cytopenia. If HLH is suspected, discontinue ZOSYN Injection immediately and institute appropriate management.
- Rhabdomyolysis: Rhabdomyolysis has been reported with the use of piperacillin and tazobactam. If signs or symptoms of rhabdomyolysis such as muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, dark urine, or elevated creatine phosphokinase are observed, discontinue ZOSYN Injection and initiate appropriate therapy.
- Hematologic Adverse Reactions: Bleeding manifestations have occurred in some patients receiving beta-lactam drugs, including piperacillin. These reactions have sometimes been associated with abnormalities of coagulation tests such as clotting time, platelet aggregation and prothrombin time, and are more likely to occur in patients with renal failure. If bleeding manifestations occur, ZOSYN Injection should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted. The leukopenia/neutropenia associated with ZOSYN Injection administration appears to be reversible and most frequently associated with prolonged administration. Periodic assessment of hematopoietic function should be performed, especially with prolonged therapy, i.e., ≥ 21 days.
- Central Nervous System Adverse Reactions: As with other penicillins, ZOSYN Injection may cause neuromuscular excitability or seizures. Patients receiving higher doses, especially patients with renal impairment may be at greater risk for central nervous system adverse reactions. Closely monitor patients with renal impairment or seizure disorders for signs and symptoms of neuromuscular excitability or seizures.
- Nephrotoxicity in Critically Ill Patients: The use of ZOSYN Injection was found to be an independent risk factor for renal failure and was associated with delayed recovery of renal function as compared to other beta-lactam antibacterial drugs in critically ill patients. Alternative treatment options should be considered in the critically ill population. If alternative treatment options are inadequate or unavailable, monitor renal function during treatment with ZOSYN Injection.
- Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD): CDAD has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including ZOSYN Injection, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial drug use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.
- Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (incidence >5%) are diarrhea, constipation, nausea, headache, and insomnia.
- Renal Impairment: In patients with creatinine clearance ≤ 40 mL/min and dialysis patients (hemodialysis and CAPD), the intravenous dose of ZOSYN Injection should be reduced to the degree of renal function impairment.
Drug Interactions:
- ZOSYN Injection administration can significantly reduce tobramycin concentrations in hemodialysis patients. Monitor tobramycin concentrations in these patients.
- Probenecid prolongs the half-lives of piperacillin and tazobactam and should not be co-administered with ZOSYN Injection unless the benefit outweighs the risk.
- Co-administration of ZOSYN Injection with vancomycin may increase the incidence of acute kidney injury. Monitor kidney function in patients receiving ZOSYN Injection and vancomycin.
- Monitor coagulation parameters in patients receiving ZOSYN Injection and heparin or oral anticoagulants.
- ZOSYN Injection may prolong the neuromuscular blockade of vecuronium and other non-depolarizing neuromuscular blockers. Monitor for adverse reactions related to neuromuscular blockade.
Please click for accompanying full Prescribing Information for ZOSYN (piperacillin and tazobactam) Injection.
Vancomycin Injection, USP
Indications and Important Risk Information
Indications
Vancomycin Injection is a glycopeptide antibacterial indicated for the treatment of the following infections in adult and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved:
- Septicemia
- Infective Endocarditis
- Skin and Skin Structure Infections
- Bone Infections
- Lower Respiratory Tract Infections
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Vancomycin Injection and other antibacterial drugs, Vancomycin Injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria.
Important Risk Information
- Contraindications: Vancomycin Injection is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to vancomycin. Solutions containing dextrose may be contraindicated in patients with known allergy to corn or corn products.
Infusion Reactions: Hypotension, including shock and cardiac arrest, wheezing, dyspnea, urticaria or pruritus, muscular and chest pain may occur with rapid Vancomycin Injection administration. The reactions may be more severe in pediatric patients. Rapid intravenous administration may also be associated with “vancomycin infusion reaction”, which manifests as pruritus and erythema that involves the face, neck and upper body. There have been reports that the frequency of infusion-related reactions increases with the concomitant administration of anesthetic agents. Infusion-related adverse reactions are related to both the concentration and rate of administration.
Administer Vancomycin Injection over a period of 60 minutes or greater prior to administration of anesthetic agents when feasible. Stopping the infusion usually results in prompt cessation of these reactions.
- Nephrotoxicity: Vancomycin Injection can result in acute kidney injury (AKI), including acute renal failure. The risk of AKI increases with higher vancomycin serum levels, prolonged exposure, concomitant administration of other nephrotoxic drugs, concomitant administration of piperacillin-tazobactam, volume depletion, pre-existing renal impairment and in critically ill patients and patients with co-morbid conditions that predispose to renal impairment. Monitor serum vancomycin concentrations and renal function in all patients. If AKI occurs, discontinue Vancomycin Injection, or reduce the dose.
- Ototoxicity: Has occurred in patients receiving Vancomycin Injection. It may be reversible or permanent. Ototoxicity manifests as tinnitus, hearing loss, dizziness or vertigo. The risk is higher in older patients, patients who are receiving higher doses, who have an underlying hearing loss, who are receiving concomitant therapy with another ototoxic agent, or who have underlying renal impairment. Monitor serum vancomycin concentrations and renal function in all patients. Discontinue Vancomycin Injection if ototoxicity occurs. Serial tests of auditory function may be helpful in order to minimize the risk.
- Severe Dermatologic Reactions: Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), and linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) have been reported. Cutaneous signs or symptoms reported include skin rashes, mucosal lesions, and blisters. Discontinue Vancomycin Injection at the first appearance of signs and symptoms of TEN, SJS, DRESS, AGEP, or LABD.
- Clostridioides difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD): CDAD has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including Vancomycin Injection, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.
- Hemorrhagic Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis (HORV): HORV, including permanent loss of vision, occurred in patients receiving intracameral or intravitreal administration of vancomycin during or after cataract surgery. The safety and efficacy of vancomycin administered by the intracameral or the intravitreal route have not been established.
- Neutropenia: Reversible neutropenia has been reported. Patients who will undergo prolonged therapy with vancomycin or those who are receiving concomitant drugs that may cause neutropenia should have periodic monitoring of the leukocyte count. Neutropenia appears to be promptly reversible when vancomycin is discontinued.
- Phlebitis and Other Administration Site Reactions: Inflammation at the injection site has been reported. Vancomycin is irritating to tissue and must be given by a secure intravenous route of administration. Thrombophlebitis may occur, the frequency and severity of which can be minimized by slow infusion of the drug and by rotation of venous access sites.
- Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions are anaphylaxis, “vancomycin infusion reaction”, acute kidney injury, hearing loss, neutropenia.
- Drug Interactions:
- Anesthetic Agents: Concomitant administration of vancomycin and anesthetic agents has been associated with erythema and histamine-like flushing.
- Piperacillin/Tazobactam: Increased incidence of acute kidney injury in patients receiving concomitant piperacillin/tazobactam as compared to vancomycin alone. Monitor kidney function in patients.
- Renal Impairment: Dosage adjustment of VancomycinInjection must be made in patients with impaired renal function. Measure vancomycin serum concentrations to guide intravenous therapy, especially in patients with impaired renal function or fluctuating renal function.
Please click for accompanying full Prescribing Information for Vancomycin Injection, USP.
Norepinephrine Bitartrate in 5% Dextrose Injection
Indication and Important Risk Information
Indication
- Norepinephrine Bitartrate in Dextrose Injection is indicated to raise blood pressure in adult patients with severe, acute hypotension.
Important Risk Information
- Contraindications: None.
Tissue Ischemia: Administration of Norepinephrine Bitartrate in Dextrose Injection to patients who are hypotensive from hypovolemia can result in severe peripheral and visceral vasoconstriction, decreased renal perfusion and reduced urine output, tissue hypoxia, lactic acidosis, and reduced systemic blood flow despite “normal” blood pressure. Address hypovolemia prior to initiating Norepinephrine Bitartrate in Dextrose Injection. Avoid use in patients with mesenteric or peripheral vascular thrombosis, as this may increase ischemia and extend the area of infarction.
Gangrene of the extremities has occurred in patients with occlusive or thrombotic vascular disease or who received prolonged or high dose infusions. Monitor for changes to the skin of the extremities in susceptible patients.
Extravasation of Norepinephrine Bitartrate in Dextrose Injection may cause necrosis and sloughing of surrounding tissue. To reduce the risk of extravasation, infuse into a large vein, check the infusion site frequently for free flow, and monitor for signs of extravasation.
Avoid administration into the veins in the leg in elderly patients.
Emergency Treatment of Extravasation: Infiltrate the ischemic area as soon as possible, using a syringe with a fine hypodermic needle with 5 to 10 mg of phentolamine mesylate in 10 to 15 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection in adults.
- Hypotension after Abrupt Discontinuation: Sudden cessation of the infusion rate may result in marked hypotension. When discontinuing the infusion, gradually reduce the infusion rate while expanding blood volume with intravenous fluids.
- Cardiac Arrhythmias: Norepinephrine Bitartrate in Dextrose Injection elevates intracellular calcium concentrations and may cause arrhythmias, particularly in the setting of hypoxia or hypercarbia. Perform continuous cardiac monitoring of patients with arrhythmias.
- Elderly Patients: May be at a greater risk of developing adverse reactions.
- Adverse Reactions: Most common adverse reactions are hypertension and bradycardia.
Drug Interactions:
- Co-administration of Norepinephrine Bitartrate in Dextrose Injection with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors or other drugs with MAO-inhibiting properties (e.g., linezolid) or with tricyclic antidepressants can cause severe, prolonged hypertension.
- Anti-diabetics: Norepinephrine Bitartrate in Dextrose Injection can decrease insulin sensitivity and raise blood glucose.
- Concomitant use of Norepinephrine Bitartrate in Dextrose Injection with halogenated anesthetics may lead to ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. Monitor cardiac rhythm in patients receiving concomitant halogenated anesthetics.
Please click for accompanying full Prescribing Information for Norepinephrine Bitartrate in 5% Dextrose Injection.
MYXREDLIN (Insulin Human) in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection
Indication and Important Risk Information
Indication
MYXREDLIN is a short-acting human insulin indicated to improve glycemic control in adults and pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus.
Important Risk Information
Contraindications
- During episodes of hypoglycemia
- Hypersensitivity to insulin human or any of the excipients in MYXREDLIN
Warnings and Precautions
- Hyper- or Hypoglycemia with Changes in Insulin Regimen: Carry out under close medical supervision and increase frequency of blood glucose monitoring.
- Administer MYXREDLIN intravenously ONLY under medical supervision with close monitoring of blood glucose and potassium levels. Hypokalemia may be life-threatening if not treated.
- Individualize dose based on metabolic needs, blood glucose monitoring results, and glycemic control goal. Dosage adjustments may be needed with changes in nutrition, renal, or hepatic function or during acute illness.
- Adverse reactions observed with insulin human injection include hypoglycemia, allergic reactions, weight gain and edema.
- Fluid Retention and Heart Failure with Concomitant Use of Thiazolidinediones (TZDs): Observe for signs and symptoms of heart failure; such as shortness of breath, swelling of your ankles or feet, or sudden weight gain.
Dosage and Administration
- Inspect MYXREDLIN visually before use. It should appear clear and colorless. Do not use MYXREDLIN if particulate matter or coloration is seen.
- Do not add supplementary medication or additives.
- Do not use in series connections.
- Do not shake or freeze. Discard unused portion.
Please click for full Prescribing Information for MYXREDLIN (Insulin Human) in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection.
NEXTERONE (amiodarone HCl) Premixed Injection
Indication and Important Risk Information
Indications
NEXTERONE Premixed Injection is indicated for initiation of treatment and prophylaxis of frequently recurring ventricular fibrillation (VF) and hemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia (VT) in patients refractory to other therapy.
Important Risk Information
- Contraindications: NEXTERONE Premixed Injection is contraindicated in patients with:
- Known hypersensitivity to any of the components of NEXTERONE Premixed Injection, including iodine
- Cardiogenic shock
- Marked sinus bradycardia
- Second- or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block unless a functioning pacemaker is available
- Persistence of Adverse Effects: Because of the long half-life of amiodarone (9 to 36 days) and its metabolite desethylamiodarone (9 to 30 days), adverse reactions or interactions, as well as observed adverse effects, can persist following amiodarone withdrawal.
- Hypotension: Most often seen in the first several hours of treatment and likely related to the rate of infusion. In some cases, hypotension may be refractory and result in a fatal outcome. To treat: Slow the infusion; as needed, add vasopressor drugs, positive inotropic agents, and volume expansion.
- Primary Graft Dysfunction (PGD) Post Cardiac Transplant: In retrospective studies, amiodarone use in transplant recipients prior to heart transplants has been associated with an increased risk of PGD. Severe PGD may be irreversible. For patients who are on the heart transplant waiting list, consideration should be given to use an alternative antiarrhythmic drug as early as possible before transplant.
- Bradycardia and Atrioventricular Block: May require slowing the infusion rate or discontinuing NEXTERONE Premixed Injection. In some patients, inserting a pacemaker is required. Have a temporary pacemaker available when treating a patient predisposed to bradycardia or AV block.
- Hepatic Injury: Acute hepatocellular necrosis leading to hepatic coma, acute renal failure, and death has been associated. Intravenous infusions at much higher concentrations and rates of infusion than those recommended appear to increase this risk. Carefully monitor patients receiving NEXTERONE Premixed Injection for evidence of progressive hepatic injury. Consider reducing the rate of administration or withdrawing NEXTERONE Premixed Injection if hepatic injury occurs.
- Proarrhythmia: NEXTERONE Premixed Injection may cause a worsening of existing arrhythmias or precipitate a new arrhythmia, sometimes leading to fatal outcomes. Proarrhythmia, primarily torsade de pointes (TdP), has been associated with prolongation by intravenous amiodarone. Monitor patients for QTc prolongation during infusion. Reserve the combination of amiodarone with other antiarrhythmic therapies that prolong the QTc to patients with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias who are incompletely responsive to a single agent. Correct hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia or hypocalcemia whenever possible before initiating treatment.
- Pulmonary Injury: There have been post-marketing reports of acute-onset (days to weeks) pulmonary injury. Some cases have progressed to respiratory failure or death. Monitor for new respiratory symptoms and evaluate appropriately. Obtain a baseline chest X-ray and pulmonary function tests in patients who are expected to be receiving amiodarone chronically.
- Loss of Vision: Cases of optic neuropathy and optic neuritis, usually resulting in visual impairment, have been reported. In some cases, visual impairment has progressed to permanent blindness. Optic neuropathy and neuritis may occur at any time following initiation of therapy. Perform an ophthalmic examination if symptoms of visual impairment appear. Reevaluate the necessity of amiodarone therapy if optic neuropathy or neuritis is suspected.
- Thyroid Abnormalities: NEXTERONE Premixed Injection inhibits peripheral conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3) and may cause increased T3 levels, and increased levels of inactive reverse T3 (rT3) in clinically euthyroid patients. Monitor thyroid function prior to treatment and periodically thereafter, particularly in elderly patients, and in any patient with a history of thyroid nodules, goiter, or other thyroid dysfunction. Hyperthyroidism may induce arrhythmia breakthrough. If any new signs of arrhythmia appear, the possibility of hyperthyroidism should be considered.
- Neonatal Injury: Amiodarone can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Fetal exposure may increase the potential for adverse experiences including cardiac, thyroid, neurodevelopmental, neurological and growth effects in neonate. Inform the patient of the potential hazard to the fetus if NEXTERONE Premixed Injection is administered during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking.
- Hypersensitivity Reactions: Anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions have been reported including shock (sometimes fatal), cardiac arrest, and the following manifestations: hypotension, tachycardia, hypoxia, cyanosis, rash, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, flushing, hyperhidrosis and cold sweat.
- Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (1-2%) leading to discontinuation of intravenous amiodarone therapy are hypotension, asystole/cardiac arrest/pulseless electrical activity, VT, and cardiogenic shock. Other important adverse reactions are torsade de pointes, congestive heart failure, and liver function test abnormalities.
Drug Interactions: Amiodarone is a substrate for CYP3A and CYP2C8, so inhibitors and inducers affect amiodarone exposure. Amiodarone inhibits p-glycoprotein and CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, and CYP3A, increasing exposure to other drugs.
Please click for accompanying full Prescribing Information for NEXTERONE (amiodarone HCI) Premixed Injection.
CARDENE I.V. (nicardipine hydrochloride) Injection
Indication and Important Risk Information
Indication
CARDENE I.V. is a calcium channel blocker indicated for the short-term treatment of hypertension when oral therapy is not feasible or not desirable. For prolonged control of blood pressure, transfer patients to oral medication as soon as their clinical condition permits.
Important Risk Information
Contraindications
Do not use in patients with advanced aortic stenosis.
Warnings and Precautions
- Exacerbation of Angina
Increases in frequency, duration, or severity of angina have been seen in chronic therapy with oral nicardipine. Induction or exacerbation of angina has been seen in less than 1% of coronary artery disease patients treated with CARDENE I.V. The mechanism of this effect has not been established. - Exacerbation of Heart Failure
Titrate slowly when using CARDENE I.V., particularly in combination with a beta-blocker, in patients with heart failure or significant left ventricular dysfunction because of possible negative inotropic effects. - Increased effect with Impaired Hepatic Function
Since nicardipine is metabolized in the liver, consider lower dosages and closely monitor responses in patients with impaired liver function or reduced hepatic blood flow. - Prolonged effect with Impaired Renal Function
When CARDENE I.V. was given to mild to moderate hypertensive patients with moderate renal impairment, a significantly lower systemic clearance and higher area under the curve (AUC) was observed. Titrate gradually in patients with renal impairment. - Local Irritation
To reduce the possibility of venous thrombosis, phlebitis, local irritation, swelling, extravasation, and the occurrence of vascular impairment, administer drug through large peripheral veins or central veins rather than arteries or small peripheral veins, such as those on the dorsum of the hand or wrist. To minimize the risk of peripheral venous irritation, change the site of the drug infusion every 12 hours. - Adverse Reactions: Most common adverse reactions are headache (15%), hypotension (6%), tachycardia (4%) and nausea/vomiting (5%).
- Drug Interactions:
- Cimetidine has been shown to increase nicardipine plasma concentrations with oral nicardipine administration. Frequently monitor response in patients receiving both drugs.
- Oral or intravenous nicardipine may increase cyclosporine and tacrolimus plasma levels. Frequent monitoring of trough blood levels of cyclosporine and tacrolimus is recommended when co-administering CARDENE I.V.
- Pregnancy: Based on animal data may cause fetal harm. CARDENE I.V. should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Dosage and Administration
- If unacceptable hypotension or tachycardia occurs, discontinue the CARDENE I.V. infusion. When blood pressure and heart rate stabilize, restart the infusion at low doses.
Please click for accompanying full Prescribing Information for CARDENE I.V.
Vasopressin in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection
Indication and Important Risk Information
Indication
Vasopressin in Sodium Chloride Injection is indicated to increase blood pressure in adults with vasodilatory shock who remain hypotensive despite fluids and catecholamines.
Important Risk Information
- Contraindications: Vasopressin in Sodium Chloride Injection is contraindicated in patients with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to 8-L-arginine vasopressin.
- Worsening Cardiac Function: A decrease in cardiac index may be observed with the use of vasopressin.
- Reversible Diabetes Insipidus: Patients may experience reversible diabetes insipidus, manifested by the development of polyuria, a dilute urine, and hypernatremia, after cessation of treatment with vasopressin. Monitor serum electrolytes, fluid status, and urine output after vasopressin discontinuation. Some patients may require readministration of vasopressin or administration of desmopressin to correct fluid and electrolyte shifts.
Adverse Reactions:
– The most common adverse reactions include decreased cardiac output, bradycardia, tachyarrhythmias, hyponatremia, and ischemia (coronary, mesenteric, skin, digital).
Drug Interactions:
– Pressor effects of catecholamines and Vasopressin in Sodium Chloride Injection are expected to be additive.
– Indomethacin may prolong effects of Vasopressin in Sodium Chloride Injection.
– Co-administration of ganglionic blockers or drugs causing SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion) may increase the pressor response.
– Co-administration of drugs causing diabetes insipidus may decrease the pressor response.
- Pregnancy: May induce tonic uterine contractions that could threaten the continuation of pregnancy.
Please click for accompanying full Prescribing Information for Vasopressin in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection.
Daptomycin in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection
Indications and Important Risk Information
Indications
Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection is a lipopeptide antibacterial indicated for the treatment of:
- Complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI) in adult and pediatric patients (1 to 17 years of age) for whom appropriate dosing can be achieved
- Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections (bacteremia), in adult patients for whom appropriate dosing can be achieved, including those with right-sided infective endocarditis
- Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections (bacteremia) in pediatric patients (1 to 17 years of age) for whom appropriate dosing can be achieved
Limitations of use:
- Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection is not indicated for the treatment of pneumonia.
- Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection is not indicated for the treatment of left-sided infective endocarditis due to S. aureus.
- Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection is not recommended in pediatric patients younger than one year of age due to the risk of potential effects on muscular, neuromuscular, and/or nervous systems (either peripheral and/or central) observed in neonatal dogs.
- To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection and other antibacterial drugs, Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection should be used to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria.
Important Risk Information
Contraindications
- Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to daptomycin.
Warnings and precautions
- Anaphylaxis/hypersensitivity reactions: Anaphylaxis/hypersensitivity reactions have been reported with the use of antibacterial agents, including daptomycin for injection, and may be life-threatening. If an allergic reaction occurs, discontinue the drug and institute appropriate therapy.
Myopathy and rhabdomyolysis: Patients receiving Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection should be monitored for the development of muscle pain or weakness, particularly of the distal extremities. CPK levels should be monitored weekly and more frequently in patients who received recent, prior or concomitant therapy with an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor or in whom elevations in CPK occur during treatment. In adult patients with renal impairment, both renal function and CPK should be monitored more frequently than once weekly.
Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection should not be dosed more frequently than once a day.
Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection should be discontinued in patients with unexplained signs and symptoms of myopathy in conjunction with CPK elevations to levels >1,000 U/L, and in patients without reported symptoms who have marked elevations in CPK, with levels >2,000 U/L.
- Eosinophilic pneumonia: Has been reported in patients receiving daptomycin for injection. In reported cases, patients developed fever, dyspnea with hypoxic respiratory insufficiency and diffuse pulmonary infiltrates or organizing pneumonia. In general, patients developed eosinophilic pneumonia 2 to 4 weeks after starting daptomycin for injection and improved when discontinued and steroid therapy was initiated. Recurrence of eosinophilic pneumonia upon re-exposure has been reported. Patients who develop these signs and symptoms should undergo prompt medical evaluation, and Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection should be discontinued immediately.
- Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS): DRESS has been reported in postmarketing experience. Patients who develop skin rash, fever, peripheral eosinophilia and systemic organ (for example, hepatic, renal, pulmonary) impairment while receiving Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection should undergo medical evaluation. If DRESS is suspected, discontinue promptly and institute appropriate treatment.
- Tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN): TIN has been reported in post-marketing experience. Patients who develop new or worsening renal impairment while receiving Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection should undergo medical evaluation. If TIN is suspected, discontinue promptly and institute appropriate treatment.
- Peripheral neuropathy: Cases have been reported during post-marketing experience. Therefore, physicians should be alert to signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in patients receiving Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection. Monitor for neuropathy and consider discontinuation.
- Potential nervous system and/or muscular system effects in pediatric patients younger than 12 months: Avoid use in pediatric patients younger than 12 months due to the risk of potential effects on muscular, neuromuscular and/or nervous systems (either peripheral and/or central) observed in neonatal dogs with intravenous daptomycin.
- Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD): CDAD has been reported with the use of nearly all systemic antibacterial agents, including daptomycin for injection, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Careful medical history is necessary because CDAD has been reported to occur more than 2 months after the administration of antibacterial agents. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.
- Persisting or relapsing S. aureus bacteremia/endocarditis: Patients should have repeat blood cultures. If a blood culture is positive for S. aureus, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) susceptibility testing of the isolate should be performed, and diagnostic evaluation of the patient should be performed to rule out sequestered foci of infection. Appropriate surgical intervention and/or consideration of a change in antibacterial regimen may be required. Failure of treatment may be due to reduced daptomycin susceptibility.
- Decreased efficacy was observed in adult patients with moderate baseline renal impairment: Consider these data when selecting antibacterial therapy for use in adult patients with baseline moderate to severe renal impairment.
- Adverse reactions:
- Adult cSSSI patients: The most common adverse reactions that occurred in ≥2% of adult cSSSI patients receiving daptomycin for injection 4 mg/kg were diarrhea, headache, dizziness, rash, abnormal liver function tests, elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK), urinary tract infections, hypotension and dyspnea.
- Pediatric cSSSI patients: The most common adverse reactions that occurred in ≥2% of pediatric patients receiving daptomycin for injection were diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, pruritus, pyrexia, elevated CPK and headache.
- Adult S. aureus bacteremia/endocarditis patients: The most common adverse reactions that occurred in ≥5% of S. aureus bacteremia/endocarditis patients receiving daptomycin for injection 6 mg/kg were sepsis, bacteremia, abdominal pain, chest pain, edema, pharyngolaryngeal pain, pruritus, increased sweating, insomnia, elevated CPK and hypertension.
- Pediatric S. aureus bacteremia patients: The most common adverse reactions that occurred in ≥5% of pediatric patients receiving daptomycin for injection were vomiting and elevated CPK.
- Drug interactions:
- HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors: Inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase may cause myopathy. Experience with the coadministration of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors and daptomycin for injection in patients is limited; therefore, consideration should be given to suspending use of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors temporarily in patients receiving Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection.
- Drug-lab test interactions: Increased International Normalized Ratio (INR)/Prolonged Prothrombin Time: Clinically relevant plasma concentrations of daptomycin have been observed to cause a significant concentration-dependent false prolongation of prothrombin time (PT) and elevation of International Normalized Ratio (INR) when certain recombinant thromboplastin reagents are utilized for the assay.
Dosage and administration
- If a dose of Daptomycin in Sodium Chloride Injection is required that does not equal 350 mg, 500 mg, 700 mg or 1,000 mg, this product is not recommended for use and an alternative formulation of daptomycin should be considered.
Please click for accompanying full Prescribing Information for Daptomycin in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection.
Clindamycin Phosphate in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection
Indications and Important Risk Information
Indications
Clindamycin Phosphate in Sodium Chloride Injection is indicated for the treatment of serious infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria in adults and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved. It is also indicated for the treatment of serious infections due to susceptible isolates of streptococci, pneumococci, and staphylococci in adults and pediatric patients. Its use should be reserved for penicillin-allergic patients or other patients for whom, in the judgment of the physician, a penicillin is inappropriate.
Clindamycin Phosphate in Sodium Chloride Injection is also indicated for the treatment of the following in adult and pediatric patients for whom appropriate dosing with this formulation can be achieved: • Lower Respiratory Tract Infections. • Skin and Skin Structure Infections. • Gynecological Infections. • Intra-abdominal Infections. • Septicemia. • Bone and Joint Infections.
Limitation of use: Since clindamycin does not diffuse adequately into the cerebrospinal fluid, Clindamycin Phosphate in Sodium Chloride Injection should not be used in the treatment of meningitis.
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Clindamycin Phosphate in Sodium Chloride Injection and other antibacterial drugs, Clindamycin Phosphate in Sodium Chloride Injection should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria.
Important Risk Information
WARNING: CLOSTRIDIOIDES DIFFICILE-ASSOCIATED DIARRHEA (CDAD) and COLITIS
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including Clindamycin Phosphate in Sodium Chloride Injection and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora
of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.
Because Clindamycin Phosphate in Sodium Chloride Injection therapy has been associated with severe colitis which may end fatally, it should be reserved for serious infections where less toxic antimicrobial agents are inappropriate. It should not be used in patients with nonbacterial infections such as most upper respiratory tract infections. C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy.
CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.
If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.
Contraindications
Individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to preparations containing clindamycin or lincomycin.
Warnings and Precautions
- Anaphylactic and Severe Hypersensitivity Reactions: Anaphylactic shock and anaphylactic reactions have been reported. Severe hypersensitivity reactions, including severe skin reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), some with fatal outcome, have been reported.
In case of such an anaphylactic or severe hypersensitivity reaction, discontinue treatment permanently and institute appropriate therapy. A careful inquiry should be made concerning previous sensitivities to drugs and other allergens. - Nephrotoxicity: Clindamycin is potentially nephrotoxic and cases with acute kidney injury have been reported.
Consider monitoring of renal function particularly in patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction or those taking
concomitant nephrotoxic drugs. In case of acute kidney injury, discontinue Clindamycin Phosphate in Sodium
Chloride Injection when no other etiology is identified. - Diarrhea in Elderly Patients with Associated Severe Illness: Elderly patients with associated severe illness may have a greater risk of developing adverse reactions from diarrhea. When clindamycin is indicated in these patients, they should be carefully monitored for change in bowel frequency.
- Use in Patients with Gastrointestinal Disease: Should be avoided in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis.
- Use in Atopic Individuals:Clindamycin Phosphate in Sodium Chloride Injection should be avoided.
- Laboratory Tests:Monitoring to Assess Safety: During prolonged therapy periodic liver and kidney function tests and blood counts should be performed.
- Overgrowth of Non-susceptible Organisms: Particularly yeasts. If such infections occur, appropriate measures should be taken as indicated by the clinical situation.
- Dosage and Administration: Should not be injected intravenously undiluted as a bolus, but should be infused over at least 10 minutes. Cardiopulmonary arrest and hypotension have been reported following too rapid intravenous administration.
- Adverse Reactions: Most common: gastrointestinal (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting) and hypersensitivity
reactions (anaphylaxis, urticaria, skin rash). - Drug Interactions:
- Neuromuscular Blocking Agents: Clindamycin has been shown to have neuromuscular blocking properties that may enhance the action of other neuromuscular blocking agents. Therefore, it should be avoided in patients receiving such agents.
- Inhibitors of CYP3A4 and/or CYP3A5: Monitor for adverse reactions when strong CYP3A4 and/or CYP3A5 inhibitors are co-administered with clindamycin.
- Inducers of CYP3A4 and/or CYP3A5: In the presence of strong CYP3A4 and/or CYP3A5 inducers such as rifampicin, monitor for loss of effectiveness.
Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information for Clindamycin Phosphate in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection.
Clindamycin Injection USP in 5% Dextrose
Indications and Important Risk Information
Indications
Clindamycin Injection USP in 5% Dextrose products are indicated in the treatment of serious infections caused by
susceptible anaerobic bacteria. They are also indicated in the treatment of serious infections due to susceptible strains of streptococci, pneumococci, and staphylococci. Its use should be reserved for penicillin-allergic patients or other patients for whom, in the judgment of the physician, a penicillin is inappropriate.
Clindamycin Injection USP in 5% Dextrose is indicated in the treatment of serious infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated organisms in the conditions listed: Lower respiratory tract infections including pneumonia, empyema, and lung abscess caused by anaerobes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, other streptococci (except E. faecalis), and Staphylococcus aureus. Skin and skin structure infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and anaerobes. Gynecological infections including endometritis, nongonococcal tubo-ovarian abscess, pelvic cellulitis, and postsurgical vaginal cuff infection caused by susceptible anaerobes. Intra-abdominal infections including peritonitis and intra-abdominal abscess caused by susceptible anaerobic organisms. Septicemia caused by Staphylococcus aureus, streptococci (except Enterococcus faecalis), and susceptible anaerobes. Bone and joint infections including acute hematogenous osteomyelitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus and as adjunctive therapy in the surgical treatment of chronic bone and joint infections due to susceptible organisms.
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Clindamycin Injection USP in 5% Dextrose and other antibacterial drugs, Clindamycin Injection USP in 5% Dextrose should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.
Important Risk Information
WARNING
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all
antibacterial agents, including Clindamycin Injection USP in 5% Dextrose and may range in severity
from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the
colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.
Because Clindamycin Injection USP in 5% Dextrose therapy has been associated with severe colitis
which may end fatally, it should be reserved for serious infections where less toxic antimicrobial
agents are inappropriate. It should not be used in patients with nonbacterial infections such as most
upper respiratory tract infections. C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the
development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and
mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy.
CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful
medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the
administration of antibacterial agents.
If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to
be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic
treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.
Contraindications
Individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to preparations containing clindamycin or lincomycin.
Warnings and Precautions
- Anaphylactic and Severe Hypersensitivity Reactions: Anaphylactic shock and anaphylactic reactions have been reported. Severe hypersensitivity reactions, including severe skin reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), some with fatal outcome, have been reported.
In case of such an anaphylactic or severe hypersensitivity reaction, discontinue treatment permanently and institute appropriate therapy. A careful inquiry should be made concerning previous sensitivities to drugs and other allergens. - Nephrotoxicity: Clindamycin is potentially nephrotoxic and cases with acute kidney injury have been reported.
Consider monitoring of renal function particularly in patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction or those taking
concomitant nephrotoxic drugs. In case of acute kidney injury, discontinue Clindamycin Injection USP in 5%
Dextrose when no other etiology is identified. - Usage in Meningitis: Since clindamycin does not diffuse adequately into the cerebrospinal fluid, the drug should not be used in the treatment of meningitis.
- Diarrhea in Elderly Patients with Associated Severe Illness: May tolerate diarrhea less well. When clindamycin is indicated in these patients, they should be carefully monitored for change in bowel frequency.
- Use in Patients with Gastrointestinal Disease: Should be prescribed with caution in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis.
- Use in Atopic Individuals: Should be prescribed with caution in atopic individuals.
- Surgical Procedures: Certain infections may require incision and drainage or other indicated surgical procedures in addition to antibiotic therapy.
- Overgrowth of Non-susceptible Organisms: Particularly yeasts. Should superinfections occur, appropriate measures should be taken as indicated by the clinical situation.
- Dosage and Administration: Clindamycin Injection USP in 5% Dextrose should not be injected intravenously undiluted as a bolus, but should be infused over at least 10-60 minutes. Cardiopulmonary arrest and hypotension have been reported following too rapid intravenous administration.
- Laboratory Tests: Monitoring to Assess Safety: During prolonged therapy periodic liver and kidney function tests and blood counts should be performed.
- Adverse Reactions: Generalized mild to moderate morbilliform-like skin rashes are the most frequently reported of all adverse reactions.
- Drug Interactions:
- Neuromuscular Blocking Agents: Clindamycin has been shown to have neuromuscular blocking properties that may enhance the action of other neuromuscular blocking agents. Therefore, it should be avoided in patients receiving such agents.
- Inhibitors of CYP3A4 and/or CYP3A5: Monitor for adverse reactions when strong CYP3A4 and/or CYP3A5 inhibitors are co-administered with clindamycin.
- Inducers of CYP3A4 and/or CYP3A5: In the presence of strong CYP3A4 and/or CYP3A5 inducers such as rifampicin, monitor for loss of effectiveness.
Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information for Clindamycin Injection USP in 5% Dextrose.
Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection
Indications and Important Risk Information
Indications
Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection is an alpha2-adrenergic receptor agonist indicated for:
- Sedation of initially intubated and mechanically ventilated adult patients during treatment in an intensive care setting. Administer dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection by continuous infusion not to exceed 24 hours.
- Sedation of non-intubated adult patients prior to and/or during surgical and other procedures.
- Sedation of non-intubated pediatric patients aged 1 month to less than 18 years prior to and during non-invasive procedures.
Important Risk Information
- Contraindications: None
- Monitoring: Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection should be administered only by persons skilled in the management of patients in the intensive care or operating room setting. Patients should be continuously monitored.
- Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Sinus Arrest: Clinically significant episodes of bradycardia and sinus arrest have been reported with administration in young, healthy adult volunteers with high vagal tone or with different routes of administration including rapid intravenous or bolus administration.
Reports of hypotension and bradycardia have been associated with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection infusion. Some of these cases have resulted in fatalities. If medical intervention is required, treatment may include decreasing or stopping the infusion, increasing the rate of intravenous fluid administration, elevation of the lower extremities, and use of pressor agents.
Caution should be exercised when administering to patients with advanced heart block and/or severe ventricular dysfunction. Hypotension and/or bradycardia may be expected to be more pronounced in patients with hypovolemia, diabetes mellitus, or chronic hypertension and in elderly patients.
Use with caution with co-administration with other vasodilators or negative chronotropic agents. - Transient Hypertension: Has been observed primarily during the loading dose. Treatment has generally not been necessary, although reduction of the loading infusion rate may be desirable.
- Arousability: Some patients have been observed to be arousable and alert when stimulated. This alone should not be considered as evidence of lack of efficacy in the absence of other clinical signs and symptoms.
- Tolerance and Tachyphylaxis: Use of dexmedetomidine beyond 24 hours has been associated with tolerance and tachyphylaxis and a dose-related increase in adverse reactions.
- Hyperthermia or Pyrexia: May be resistant to traditional cooling methods, such as administration of cooled intravenous fluids and antipyretic medications. Discontinue if drug-related hyperthermia or pyrexia is suspected and monitor patients until body temperature normalizes.
- Hepatic Impairment: Clearance decreases with severity of hepatic impairment, dose reduction should be considered in patients with impaired hepatic function.
- Adverse Reactions:
- The most common adverse reactions (incidence >2%) in adults are hypotension, bradycardia, and dry mouth.
- The most common adverse reactions (incidence >5%) in pediatric patients aged 1 month to less than 17 years are bradypnea, bradycardia, hypertension, and hypotension.
- Adverse reactions in adults, associated with infusions >24 hours in duration include ARDS, respiratory failure, and agitation.
- Drug Interactions:
- Anesthetics, Sedatives, Hypnotics, Opioids: Enhancement of pharmacodynamic effects. Reduction in dosage of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection or the concomitant medication may be required.
Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information for Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection.
Magnesium Sulfate in Water for Injection
Indications and Important Risk Information
Indications
Magnesium Sulfate in Water for Injection is indicated for the prevention and control of seizures in preeclampsia and eclampsia, respectively. When used judiciously it effectively prevents and controls the convulsions of eclampsia without producing deleterious depression of the central nervous system of the mother or infant. However, other effective drugs are available for this purpose.
Important Risk Information
Contraindications
- Intravenous magnesium should not be given to mothers with toxemia of pregnancy during the two hours preceding delivery.
Warnings and Precautions
- Fetal Harm: Continuous administration of magnesium sulfate beyond 5-7 days to pregnant women can lead to hypocalcemia and bone abnormalities in the developing fetus. These bone abnormalities include skeletal demineralization and osteopenia. In addition, cases of neonatal fracture have been reported. The shortest duration of treatment that can lead to fetal harm is not known. Magnesium sulfate should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. If magnesium sulfate is given for treatment of preterm labor, the woman should be informed that the efficacy and safety of such use have not been established and that use of magnesium sulfate beyond 5-7 days may cause fetal abnormalities.
Parenteral use in the presence of renal insufficiency may lead to magnesium intoxication. - Risk of Magnesium Toxicity: Because magnesium is removed from the body solely by the kidneys, the drug should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. Urine output should be maintained at a level of 100 mL every four hours.
Monitoring serum magnesium levels and the patient's clinical status is essential to avoid the consequences of overdosage in toxemia. Clinical indications of a safe dosage regimen include the presence of the patellar reflex (knee jerk) and absence of respiratory depression (approximately 16 breaths or more/minute). An injectable calcium salt should be immediately available to counteract the potential hazards of magnesium intoxication in eclampsia.
Magnesium Sulfate in Water for Injection should be administered slowly to avoid producing hypermagnesemia. - Adverse Reactions: The adverse effects of parenterally administered magnesium usually are the result of magnesium intoxication. These include flushing, sweating, hypotension, depressed reflexes, flaccid paralysis, hypothermia, circulatory collapse, cardiac and central nervous system depression proceeding to respiratory paralysis.
Hypocalcemia with signs of tetany secondary to magnesium sulfate therapy for eclampsia has been reported.
Drug Interactions
- Drug induced renal losses of magnesium occur with the following drugs or drug classes:
Alcohol, aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, cisplatin, cyclosporine, digitalis, and diuretics
Please see accompanying Full Prescribing Information for Magnesium Sulfate in Water for Injection.
Magnesium Sulfate in 5 % Dextrose Injection, USP
Indications and Important Risk Information
Indications
Magnesium Sulfate in 5% Dextrose Injection is indicated for:
- Prevention of eclampsia in patients with preeclampsia
- Treatment of seizures and prevention of recurrent seizures in patients with eclampsia
Important Risk Information
Contraindications
Magnesium Sulfate in 5% Dextrose Injection is contraindicated in patients:
- with heart block or myocardial damage
- in diabetic coma
- with myasthenia gravis
Warnings And Precautions
- Fetal-neonatal toxicity with prolonged use: Continuous administration of magnesium sulfate beyond 5 to 7 days in pregnant women can lead to hypocalcemia and bone abnormalities in the developing fetus, including skeletal demineralization and osteopenia. In addition, cases of neonatal fracture have been reported.
Neonates of women receiving Magnesium Sulfate in 5 % Dextrose Injection (especially with prolonged maternal use) are at risk for magnesium toxicity including hyporeflexia, hypotonia, and respiratory depression. There is one reported case of neonatal death as the result of magnesium toxicity after transplacental exposure.
The shortest duration of magnesium sulfate treatment that can lead to fetal harm is not known. - Risk of magnesium toxicity: Patients receiving Magnesium Sulfate in 5 % Dextrose Injection are at risk for
magnesium toxicity including respiratory depression, acute renal failure and rarely, pulmonary edema.
Monitor clinical signs of magnesium toxicity (for example, facial edema, diminished strength of deep tendon
reflexes, respiratory depression ) and magnesium concentrations during infusions. An injectable calcium salt should be immediately available to counteract the potential hazards of magnesium toxicity in patients with preeclampsia and eclampsia. If there is significant magnesium toxicity, stop the Magnesium Sulfate in 5 % Dextrose Injection infusion and recheck serum magnesium concentration.
Patients with renal impairment are at greater risk of magnesium toxicity because magnesium is excreted by the
body solely by the kidneys. Urine output should be maintained at a level of 100 mL per 4 hours. - Risk of elevated blood glucose: Solutions containing dextrose should be used with caution in patients with known prediabetes or diabetes mellitus given the risk of elevated blood glucose.
- Co-administration with Unapproved Tocolytics: Do not use Magnesium Sulfate in 5 % Dextrose Injection with unapproved tocolytics (e .g., beta adrenergic agents such as terbutaline, or with calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine ). Serious adverse events including pulmonary edema and hypotension have occurred.
- Aluminum toxicity: Magnesium Sulfate in 5 % Dextrose Injection contains aluminum that may be toxic. Aluminum may reach toxic concentrations with prolonged parenteral administration in patients with renal impairment.
Patients with renal impairment who receive parenteral concentrations of aluminum at greater than 4 to 5
mcg /kg /day, accumulate aluminum at concentrations associated with central nervous system and bone toxicity.
Tissue loading may occur at even lower rates of administration. - Exacerbation of Myasthenia Gravis: Use of magnesium sulfate in patients with underlying myasthenia gravis can precipitate a myasthenic crisis. Myasthenic crisis is a life-threatening condition characterized by neuromuscular respiratory failure. Symptoms of myasthenic crisis may include difficulty swallowing, ptosis, facial droop, weakness and /or difficulty breathing that may require intubation. If myasthenic crisis is suspected, discontinue use of Magnesium Sulfate in 5 % Dextrose Injection immediately. Secure the patient’s airway.
- Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions are flushing, sweating, hypotension, depressed reflexes, flaccid paralysis, hypothermia, circulatory collapse, cardiac and central nervous system (CNS ) depression proceeding to respiratory paralysis, and hypocalcemia.
- Drug Interactions:
- Neuromuscular blocking agents (depolarizing and non-depolarizing): Potentiation and prolongation of neuromuscular blockade is possible with the concomitant use of Magnesium Sulfate in 5% Dextrose Injection
- Narcotics and/or propofol: Potentiation and prolongation of analgesia and CNS depression is possible with the concomitant use of Magnesium Sulfate in 5% Dextrose Injection
- Dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers: An exaggerated hypotensive response is possible with the concomitant use of Magnesium Sulfate in 5% Dextrose Injection
- Drugs that may induce magnesium loss with concomitant use of Magnesium Sulfate in 5% Dextrose Injection: Alcohol, aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, cisplatin, cyclosporine, digitalis, loop diuretics, and thiazide diuretics
Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information for Magnesium Sulfate in 5% Dextrose Injection, USP.
References
- Institute for Safe Medication Practices. ISMP Guidelines for Sterile Compounding and the Safe Use of Sterile Compounding Technology; 2022. https://www.ismp.org/resources/guidelines-sterile-compounding-and-safe-use-sterile-compounding-technology. Updated May 4, 2022. Accessed March 13, 2024.
- Billstein-Leber M, Carrillo CJD, Cassano AT, Moline K, Robertson JJ. ASHP Guidelines on Preventing Medication Errors in Hospitals. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2018 Oct;75(19):1493-1517. doi 10.2146/ajhp170811.
- Institute for Safe Medication Practices. ISMP List of High-Alert Medications in Acute Care Settings. 2024. https://www.ismp.org/system/files/resources/2024-01/ISMP_HighAlert_AcuteCare_List_010924_MS5760.pdf. Accessed Oct 10, 2024.
- ASHP Expert Panel on Medication Cost Management. ASHP guidelines on medication cost management strategies for hospitals and health systems. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2008;65(14):1368-1384.
- Data on file. Baxter International Inc., Deerfield, IL.
- Pharmacy Purchasing & Products. State of Pharmacy Compounding 2009: Survey Findings. Pharmacy Purchasing & Products. April 2009.
- Lahue BJ, Pyenson B, Iwasaki K, Blumen HE, Forray S, Rothschild JM. National burden of preventable adverse drug events associated with injectable medications: healthcare and medical professional liability costs. Am Health Drug Benefits. 2012;5(7):1-10.
Disclaimers
Baxter, Galaxy, Myxredlin, Nexterone, Viaflo and Zosyn are trademarks of Baxter International Inc. or its subsidiaries
Cardene is a registered trademark of Chiesi USA, Inc. and is used under license.









