These Highlights Do Not Include All The Information Needed To Use Phenylephrine Hydrochloride Injection Safely And Effectively. See Full Prescribing Information For Phenylephrine Hydrochloride Injection.

These Highlights Do Not Include All The Information Needed To Use Phenylephrine Hydrochloride Injection Safely And Effectively. See Full Prescribing Information For Phenylephrine Hydrochloride Injection.
SPL v2
SPL
SPL Set ID d1639934-8aa6-2364-e053-2995a90a9923
Route
INTRAVENOUS
Published
Effective Date 2023-05-02
Document Type 34391-3 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Drug Facts

Composition & Product

Active Ingredients
Phenylephrine (3.5 mg)
Inactive Ingredients
Sodium Chloride Trisodium Citrate Dihydrate Citric Acid Monohydrate Sodium Metabisulfite Hydrochloric Acid Sodium Hydroxide Water

Identifiers & Packaging

Marketing Status
ANDA Active Since 2021-01-07

Description

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist indicated for increasing blood pressure in adults with clinically important hypotension resulting primarily from vasodilation, in such settings as septic shock or anesthesia.

Indications and Usage

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist indicated for increasing blood pressure in adults with clinically important hypotension resulting primarily from vasodilation, in such settings as septic shock or anesthesia.

Dosage and Administration

Dilute before administration. ( 2.1 ) Dosing for Perioperative Hypotension Intravenous bolus administration: 50 mcg to 250 mcg ( 2.4 ) Intravenous continuous infusion: 0.5 mcg/kg/minute to 1.4 mcg/kg/minute titrated to effect ( 2.4 ) Dosing for Patients with Vasodilatory Shock Intravenous continuous infusion: 0.5 mcg/kg/minute to 6 mcg/kg/minute titrated to effect ( 2.5 )

Warnings and Precautions

Severe bradycardia and decreased cardiac output   ( 5.2 ) Extravasation : during intravenous administration may cause necrosis or sloughing of tissue ( 5.4 ) Concomitant use with oxytocic drugs : pressor effect of sympathomimetic pressor amines is potentiated ( 5.5 ) Allergic-type reactions : Sulfite ( 5.6 )

Contraindications

The use of phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is contraindicated in patients with: Hypersensitivity to it or any of its components

Adverse Reactions

The following adverse reactions associated with the use of phenylephrine hydrochloride were identified in the literature. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to estimate their frequency reliably or to establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Cardiac disorders: Bradycardia, AV block, ventricular extrasystoles, myocardial ischemia Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting General disorders and administrative site conditions: Chest pain, extravasation Immune system disorders: Sulfite sensitivity Nervous system disorders: Headache, nervousness, paresthesia, tremor Psychiatric disorders: Excitability Respiratory: Pulmonary edema, rales Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Diaphoresis, pallor, piloerection, skin blanching, skin necrosis with extravasation Vascular disorders: Hypertensive crisis

Drug Interactions

Agonistic effects with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), β-adrenergic blocking agents, α-2 adrenergic agonists, steroids, tricyclic antidepressants, norepinephrine transport inhibitors, ergot alkaloids, centrally-acting sympatholytic agents and atropine sulfate ( 7.1 ) Antagonistic effects on and by α-adrenergic blocking agents ( 7.2 )

Storage and Handling

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is a clear, colorless, aqueous solution and is supplied as follows: 10 mg per mL:     1 mL Single-Dose Vials     packaged in a carton of 25                                                        NDC 55150-300-25 Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. Keep covered in carton until time of use. For single-dose only. The diluted solution should not be held for more than 4 hours at room temperature or for more than 24 hours under refrigerated conditions. Discard any unused portion. The vial stoppers are not made with natural rubber latex.

How Supplied

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is a clear, colorless, aqueous solution and is supplied as follows: 10 mg per mL:     1 mL Single-Dose Vials     packaged in a carton of 25                                                        NDC 55150-300-25 Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. Keep covered in carton until time of use. For single-dose only. The diluted solution should not be held for more than 4 hours at room temperature or for more than 24 hours under refrigerated conditions. Discard any unused portion. The vial stoppers are not made with natural rubber latex.


Medication Information

Warnings and Precautions

Severe bradycardia and decreased cardiac output   ( 5.2 ) Extravasation : during intravenous administration may cause necrosis or sloughing of tissue ( 5.4 ) Concomitant use with oxytocic drugs : pressor effect of sympathomimetic pressor amines is potentiated ( 5.5 ) Allergic-type reactions : Sulfite ( 5.6 )

Indications and Usage

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist indicated for increasing blood pressure in adults with clinically important hypotension resulting primarily from vasodilation, in such settings as septic shock or anesthesia.

Dosage and Administration

Dilute before administration. ( 2.1 ) Dosing for Perioperative Hypotension Intravenous bolus administration: 50 mcg to 250 mcg ( 2.4 ) Intravenous continuous infusion: 0.5 mcg/kg/minute to 1.4 mcg/kg/minute titrated to effect ( 2.4 ) Dosing for Patients with Vasodilatory Shock Intravenous continuous infusion: 0.5 mcg/kg/minute to 6 mcg/kg/minute titrated to effect ( 2.5 )

Contraindications

The use of phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is contraindicated in patients with: Hypersensitivity to it or any of its components

Adverse Reactions

The following adverse reactions associated with the use of phenylephrine hydrochloride were identified in the literature. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to estimate their frequency reliably or to establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Cardiac disorders: Bradycardia, AV block, ventricular extrasystoles, myocardial ischemia Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting General disorders and administrative site conditions: Chest pain, extravasation Immune system disorders: Sulfite sensitivity Nervous system disorders: Headache, nervousness, paresthesia, tremor Psychiatric disorders: Excitability Respiratory: Pulmonary edema, rales Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Diaphoresis, pallor, piloerection, skin blanching, skin necrosis with extravasation Vascular disorders: Hypertensive crisis

Drug Interactions

Agonistic effects with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), β-adrenergic blocking agents, α-2 adrenergic agonists, steroids, tricyclic antidepressants, norepinephrine transport inhibitors, ergot alkaloids, centrally-acting sympatholytic agents and atropine sulfate ( 7.1 ) Antagonistic effects on and by α-adrenergic blocking agents ( 7.2 )

Storage and Handling

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is a clear, colorless, aqueous solution and is supplied as follows: 10 mg per mL:     1 mL Single-Dose Vials     packaged in a carton of 25                                                        NDC 55150-300-25 Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. Keep covered in carton until time of use. For single-dose only. The diluted solution should not be held for more than 4 hours at room temperature or for more than 24 hours under refrigerated conditions. Discard any unused portion. The vial stoppers are not made with natural rubber latex.

How Supplied

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is a clear, colorless, aqueous solution and is supplied as follows: 10 mg per mL:     1 mL Single-Dose Vials     packaged in a carton of 25                                                        NDC 55150-300-25 Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. Keep covered in carton until time of use. For single-dose only. The diluted solution should not be held for more than 4 hours at room temperature or for more than 24 hours under refrigerated conditions. Discard any unused portion. The vial stoppers are not made with natural rubber latex.

Description

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist indicated for increasing blood pressure in adults with clinically important hypotension resulting primarily from vasodilation, in such settings as septic shock or anesthesia.

7.1 Agonists

The pressor effect of phenylephrine hydrochloride is increased in patients receiving:

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), such as selegiline.
  • β-adrenergic blockers
  • α-2 adrenergic agonists, such as clonidine
  • Steroids
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Norepinephrine transport inhibitors, such as atomoxetine
  • Ergot alkaloids, such as methylergonovine maleate
  • Centrally-acting sympatholytic agents, such as guanfacine or reserpine
  • Atropine sulfate
10 Overdosage

Overdose of phenylephrine hydrochloride can cause a rapid rise in blood pressure. Symptoms of overdose include headache, vomiting, hypertension, reflex bradycardia, and cardiac arrhythmias including ventricular extrasystoles and ventricular tachycardia, and may cause a sensation of fullness in the head and tingling of the extremities.



Consider using an α-adrenergic antagonist.

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C



Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with intravenous phenylephrine. It is also not known whether phenylephrine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Phenylephrine hydrochloride should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.

11 Description

Phenylephrine hydrochloride is a synthetic sympathomimetic agent in sterile form for parenteral injection. Chemically, phenylephrine hydrochloride is (-)- m-Hydroxy-α-[(methylamino)methyl]benzyl alcohol hydrochloride and has the following structural formula:





Phenylephrine hydrochloride USP is white or practically white powder.



Phenylephrine hydrochloride is very soluble in water, freely soluble in ethanol, and insoluble in chloroform and ethyl ether. Phenylephrine hydrochloride is sensitive to light.



Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is a clear, colorless, aqueous solution that is essentially free of visible foreign matter. Each mL contains: Phenylephrine Hydrochloride USP, 10 mg; Sodium Chloride 3.5 mg; Sodium Citrate Dihydrate 4 mg; Citric Acid Monohydrate 1 mg; and Sodium Metabisulfite 2 mg in water for injection. The pH may be adjusted in the range of 3.5 to 5.5 with Sodium Hydroxide and/or Hydrochloric Acid, if necessary.

5.2 Bradycardia

Phenylephrine hydrochloride can cause severe bradycardia and decreased cardiac output.

7.2 Antagonists

α-adrenergic blocking agents, including phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine) and amiodarone block phenylephrine and are in turn blocked by phenylephrine.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of phenylephrine did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

5.8 Renal Toxicity

Phenylephrine hydrochloride can increase the need for renal replacement therapy in patients with septic shock. Monitor renal function.

14 Clinical Studies

Increases in systolic and mean blood pressure following administration of phenylephrine were observed in 42 literature-based studies in the perioperative setting, including 26 studies where phenylephrine was used in low-risk (ASA 1 and 2) pregnant women undergoing neuraxial anesthesia during cesarean delivery, 3 studies in non-obstetric surgery under neuraxial anesthesia, and 13 studies in patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia. Mean arterial blood pressure increases were also observed in two double-blind, active-controlled studies in patients with septic shock.

4 Contraindications

The use of phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Hypersensitivity to it or any of its components
6 Adverse Reactions

The following adverse reactions associated with the use of phenylephrine hydrochloride were identified in the literature. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to estimate their frequency reliably or to establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.



Cardiac disorders:
Bradycardia, AV block, ventricular extrasystoles, myocardial ischemia



Gastrointestinal disorders:
Nausea, vomiting



General disorders and administrative site conditions:
Chest pain, extravasation



Immune system disorders:
Sulfite sensitivity



Nervous system disorders:
Headache, nervousness, paresthesia, tremor



Psychiatric disorders:
Excitability



Respiratory:
Pulmonary edema, rales



Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:
Diaphoresis, pallor, piloerection, skin blanching, skin necrosis with extravasation



Vascular disorders:
Hypertensive crisis

7 Drug Interactions
  • Agonistic effects with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), β-adrenergic blocking agents, α-2 adrenergic agonists, steroids, tricyclic antidepressants, norepinephrine transport inhibitors, ergot alkaloids, centrally-acting sympatholytic agents and atropine sulfate ( 7.1)
  • Antagonistic effects on and by α-adrenergic blocking agents ( 7.2)
8.3 Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk.

8.7 Renal Impairment

In patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis, dose-response data indicates increased responsiveness to phenylephrine. Consider using lower doses of phenylephrine hydrochloride in ESRD patients.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Phenylephrine is the active moiety. Metabolites are inactive at both the α-1 and α-2 adrenergic receptors. Following parenteral administration of phenylephrine hydrochloride, increases in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial blood pressure, and total peripheral vascular resistance are observed. The onset of blood pressure increase following an intravenous bolus phenylephrine hydrochloride administration is rapid and the effect may persist for up to 20 minutes. As mean arterial pressure increases following parenteral doses, vagal activity also increases, resulting in reflex bradycardia.



Most vascular beds are constricted, including renal, splanchnic, and hepatic.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Following an intravenous infusion of phenylephrine hydrochloride, the effective half-life was approximately 5 minutes. The steady-state volume of distribution (340 L) exceeded the body volume by a factor of 5, suggesting a high distribution into certain organ compartments. The average total serum clearance (2095 mL/min) was close to one-third of the cardiac output.



A mass balance study showed that phenylephrine is extensively metabolized by the liver with only 12% of the dose excreted unchanged in the urine. Deamination by monoamino oxidase is the primary metabolic pathway resulting in the formation of the major metabolite (m-hydroxymandelic acid) which accounts for 57% of the total administered dose.

5.6 Allergic Reactions

This product contains sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may cause allergic-type reactions, including anaphylactic symptoms and life-threatening or less severe asthmatic episodes in certain susceptible people. The overall prevalence of sulfite sensitivity in the general population is unknown and probably low. Sulfite sensitivity is seen more frequently in asthmatic than in nonasthmatic people.

8.2 Labor and Delivery

The most common maternal adverse reactions reported in studies of phenylephrine use during neuraxial anesthesia during cesarean delivery include nausea and vomiting, which are commonly associated with hypotension, bradycardia, reactive hypertension, and transient arrhythmias. Phenylephrine does not appear to cause a decrease in placental perfusion sufficient to alter either the neonate Apgar scores or blood-gas status.

8.6 Hepatic Impairment

In patients with liver cirrhosis [Child Pugh Class A (n = 3), Class B (n = 5) and Class C (n = 1)], dose-response data indicate decreased responsiveness to phenylephrine. Consider using larger doses than usual in hepatic impaired subjects.

1 Indications and Usage

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist indicated for increasing blood pressure in adults with clinically important hypotension resulting primarily from vasodilation, in such settings as septic shock or anesthesia.

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Phenylephrine hydrochloride is an α-1 adrenergic receptor agonist.

5 Warnings and Precautions
  • Severe bradycardia and decreased cardiac output  ( 5.2)
  • Extravasation: during intravenous administration may cause necrosis or sloughing of tissue ( 5.4)
  • Concomitant use with oxytocic drugs: pressor effect of sympathomimetic pressor amines is potentiated ( 5.5)
  • Allergic-type reactions: Sulfite ( 5.6)
2 Dosage and Administration

Dilute before administration. ( 2.1)

Dosing for Perioperative Hypotension

  • Intravenous bolus administration: 50 mcg to 250 mcg ( 2.4)
  • Intravenous continuous infusion: 0.5 mcg/kg/minute to 1.4 mcg/kg/minute titrated to effect ( 2.4)

Dosing for Patients with Vasodilatory Shock

  • Intravenous continuous infusion: 0.5 mcg/kg/minute to 6 mcg/kg/minute titrated to effect ( 2.5)
3 Dosage Forms and Strengths

Injection: 10 mg/mL phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is supplied as a 1 mL single-dose vial (10 mg of phenylephrine hydrochloride per vial).

17 Patient Counseling Information

Inform patients, families, or caregivers that the primary side effect of phenylephrine is hypertension and rarely, hypertensive crisis. Patients may experience bradycardia (slow heart rate), which in some cases may produce heart block or other cardiac arrhythmias, extra ventricular beats, myocardial ischemia in patients with underlying cardiac disease, and pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) or rales. Common, less serious symptoms include the following:

  • chest pain
  • skin or tissue damage if the drug leaks out of the venous catheter into the surrounding tissue
  • headache, nervousness, tremor, numbness/tingling (paresthesias) in hands or feet
  • nausea, vomiting
  • excitability, dizziness, sweating, flushing


Distributed by:

AuroMedics Pharma LLC

279 Princeton-Hightstown Rd.

E. Windsor, NJ 08520



Manufactured by:

Aurobindo Pharma Limited

Hyderabad - 500038

India

5.4 Skin and Subcutaneous Necrosis

Extravasation of phenylephrine can cause necrosis or sloughing of tissue.

16 How Supplied/storage and Handling

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is a clear, colorless, aqueous solution and is supplied as follows:



10 mg per mL:



    1 mL Single-Dose Vials

    packaged in a carton of 25                                                        NDC 55150-300-25



Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. Keep covered in carton until time of use. For single-dose only. The diluted solution should not be held for more than 4 hours at room temperature or for more than 24 hours under refrigerated conditions. Discard any unused portion.



The vial stoppers are not made with natural rubber latex.

2.4 Dosing for Perioperative Setting

In adult patients undergoing surgical procedures with either neuraxial anesthesia or general anesthesia:

  • 50 mcg to 250 mcg by intravenous bolus administration. The most frequently reported initial bolus dose is 50 mcg or 100 mcg.
  • 0.5 mcg/kg/min to 1.4 mcg/kg/min by intravenous continuous infusion, titrated to blood pressure goal.
5.7 Peripheral and Visceral Ischemia

Phenylephrine hydrochloride can cause excessive peripheral and visceral vasoconstriction and ischemia to vital organs, particularly in patients with extensive peripheral vascular disease.

2.1 General Administration Instructions

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection must be diluted before administration as bolus intravenous infusion or continuous intravenous infusion.



Inspect the solution for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. The diluted solution should not be held for more than 4 hours at room temperature or for more than 24 hours under refrigerated conditions. Discard any unused portion.



During phenylephrine hydrochloride injection administration:

  • Correct intravascular volume depletion.
  • Correct acidosis. Acidosis may reduce the effectiveness of phenylephrine.
5.3 Risk in Patients With Autonomic Dysfunction

The pressor response to adrenergic drugs, including phenylephrine, can be increased in patients with autonomic dysfunction, as may occur with spinal cord injuries.

2.5 Dosing for Septic Or Other Vasodilatory Shock

In adult patients with septic or other vasodilatory shock:

  • No bolus.
  • 0.5 mcg/kg/min to 6 mcg/kg/min by intravenous continuous infusion, titrated to blood pressure goal. Doses above 6 mcg/kg/min do not show significant incremental increase in blood pressure.
5.5 Pressor Effect With Concomitant Oxytocic Drugs

Oxytocic drugs potentiate the pressor effect of sympathomimetic pressor amines including phenylephrine hydrochloride [see Drug Interactions (7.1)] , with the potential for hemorrhagic stroke.

Package Label Principal Display Panel Vial Label





Phenylephrine



HCl Injection, USP



10 mg per vial



For Intravenous Use



Dilute Before Use



1 mL Single-Dose Vial



Package Label Principal Display Panel Outer Package

NDC 71872-7267-1

Rx only



Phenylephrine



HCl Injection, USP



10 mg per vial



For Intravenous Use



Dilute Before Use



DISCARD UNUSED PORTION



Sterile

1 x 1 mL Single-Dose Vial





2.3 Preparing A Solution for Continuous Intravenous Infusion

For continuous intravenous infusion, withdraw 10 mg (1 mL of 10 mg/mL concentration) of phenylephrine hydrochloride injection and add to 500 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (providing a final concentration of 20 mcg/mL).

2.2 Preparing A 100 Mcg/ml Solution for Bolus Intravenous Administration

For bolus intravenous administration, withdraw 10 mg (1 mL of a 10 mg/mL concentration) of phenylephrine hydrochloride injection and dilute with 99 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP. This will yield a final concentration of 100 mcg/mL. Withdraw an appropriate dose from the 100 mcg/mL solution prior to bolus intravenous administration.

5.1 Exacerbation of Angina, Heart Failure, Or Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Because of its pressor effects, phenylephrine hydrochloride can precipitate angina in patients with severe arteriosclerosis or history of angina, exacerbate underlying heart failure, and increase pulmonary arterial pressure.


Structured Label Content

7.1 Agonists

The pressor effect of phenylephrine hydrochloride is increased in patients receiving:

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), such as selegiline.
  • β-adrenergic blockers
  • α-2 adrenergic agonists, such as clonidine
  • Steroids
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Norepinephrine transport inhibitors, such as atomoxetine
  • Ergot alkaloids, such as methylergonovine maleate
  • Centrally-acting sympatholytic agents, such as guanfacine or reserpine
  • Atropine sulfate
10 Overdosage (10 OVERDOSAGE)

Overdose of phenylephrine hydrochloride can cause a rapid rise in blood pressure. Symptoms of overdose include headache, vomiting, hypertension, reflex bradycardia, and cardiac arrhythmias including ventricular extrasystoles and ventricular tachycardia, and may cause a sensation of fullness in the head and tingling of the extremities.



Consider using an α-adrenergic antagonist.

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C



Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with intravenous phenylephrine. It is also not known whether phenylephrine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Phenylephrine hydrochloride should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.

11 Description (11 DESCRIPTION)

Phenylephrine hydrochloride is a synthetic sympathomimetic agent in sterile form for parenteral injection. Chemically, phenylephrine hydrochloride is (-)- m-Hydroxy-α-[(methylamino)methyl]benzyl alcohol hydrochloride and has the following structural formula:





Phenylephrine hydrochloride USP is white or practically white powder.



Phenylephrine hydrochloride is very soluble in water, freely soluble in ethanol, and insoluble in chloroform and ethyl ether. Phenylephrine hydrochloride is sensitive to light.



Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is a clear, colorless, aqueous solution that is essentially free of visible foreign matter. Each mL contains: Phenylephrine Hydrochloride USP, 10 mg; Sodium Chloride 3.5 mg; Sodium Citrate Dihydrate 4 mg; Citric Acid Monohydrate 1 mg; and Sodium Metabisulfite 2 mg in water for injection. The pH may be adjusted in the range of 3.5 to 5.5 with Sodium Hydroxide and/or Hydrochloric Acid, if necessary.

5.2 Bradycardia

Phenylephrine hydrochloride can cause severe bradycardia and decreased cardiac output.

7.2 Antagonists

α-adrenergic blocking agents, including phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine) and amiodarone block phenylephrine and are in turn blocked by phenylephrine.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of phenylephrine did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

5.8 Renal Toxicity

Phenylephrine hydrochloride can increase the need for renal replacement therapy in patients with septic shock. Monitor renal function.

14 Clinical Studies (14 CLINICAL STUDIES)

Increases in systolic and mean blood pressure following administration of phenylephrine were observed in 42 literature-based studies in the perioperative setting, including 26 studies where phenylephrine was used in low-risk (ASA 1 and 2) pregnant women undergoing neuraxial anesthesia during cesarean delivery, 3 studies in non-obstetric surgery under neuraxial anesthesia, and 13 studies in patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia. Mean arterial blood pressure increases were also observed in two double-blind, active-controlled studies in patients with septic shock.

4 Contraindications (4 CONTRAINDICATIONS)

The use of phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Hypersensitivity to it or any of its components
6 Adverse Reactions (6 ADVERSE REACTIONS)

The following adverse reactions associated with the use of phenylephrine hydrochloride were identified in the literature. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to estimate their frequency reliably or to establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.



Cardiac disorders:
Bradycardia, AV block, ventricular extrasystoles, myocardial ischemia



Gastrointestinal disorders:
Nausea, vomiting



General disorders and administrative site conditions:
Chest pain, extravasation



Immune system disorders:
Sulfite sensitivity



Nervous system disorders:
Headache, nervousness, paresthesia, tremor



Psychiatric disorders:
Excitability



Respiratory:
Pulmonary edema, rales



Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:
Diaphoresis, pallor, piloerection, skin blanching, skin necrosis with extravasation



Vascular disorders:
Hypertensive crisis

7 Drug Interactions (7 DRUG INTERACTIONS)
  • Agonistic effects with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), β-adrenergic blocking agents, α-2 adrenergic agonists, steroids, tricyclic antidepressants, norepinephrine transport inhibitors, ergot alkaloids, centrally-acting sympatholytic agents and atropine sulfate ( 7.1)
  • Antagonistic effects on and by α-adrenergic blocking agents ( 7.2)
8.3 Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk.

8.7 Renal Impairment

In patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis, dose-response data indicates increased responsiveness to phenylephrine. Consider using lower doses of phenylephrine hydrochloride in ESRD patients.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Phenylephrine is the active moiety. Metabolites are inactive at both the α-1 and α-2 adrenergic receptors. Following parenteral administration of phenylephrine hydrochloride, increases in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial blood pressure, and total peripheral vascular resistance are observed. The onset of blood pressure increase following an intravenous bolus phenylephrine hydrochloride administration is rapid and the effect may persist for up to 20 minutes. As mean arterial pressure increases following parenteral doses, vagal activity also increases, resulting in reflex bradycardia.



Most vascular beds are constricted, including renal, splanchnic, and hepatic.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Following an intravenous infusion of phenylephrine hydrochloride, the effective half-life was approximately 5 minutes. The steady-state volume of distribution (340 L) exceeded the body volume by a factor of 5, suggesting a high distribution into certain organ compartments. The average total serum clearance (2095 mL/min) was close to one-third of the cardiac output.



A mass balance study showed that phenylephrine is extensively metabolized by the liver with only 12% of the dose excreted unchanged in the urine. Deamination by monoamino oxidase is the primary metabolic pathway resulting in the formation of the major metabolite (m-hydroxymandelic acid) which accounts for 57% of the total administered dose.

5.6 Allergic Reactions

This product contains sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may cause allergic-type reactions, including anaphylactic symptoms and life-threatening or less severe asthmatic episodes in certain susceptible people. The overall prevalence of sulfite sensitivity in the general population is unknown and probably low. Sulfite sensitivity is seen more frequently in asthmatic than in nonasthmatic people.

8.2 Labor and Delivery

The most common maternal adverse reactions reported in studies of phenylephrine use during neuraxial anesthesia during cesarean delivery include nausea and vomiting, which are commonly associated with hypotension, bradycardia, reactive hypertension, and transient arrhythmias. Phenylephrine does not appear to cause a decrease in placental perfusion sufficient to alter either the neonate Apgar scores or blood-gas status.

8.6 Hepatic Impairment

In patients with liver cirrhosis [Child Pugh Class A (n = 3), Class B (n = 5) and Class C (n = 1)], dose-response data indicate decreased responsiveness to phenylephrine. Consider using larger doses than usual in hepatic impaired subjects.

1 Indications and Usage (1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE)

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist indicated for increasing blood pressure in adults with clinically important hypotension resulting primarily from vasodilation, in such settings as septic shock or anesthesia.

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Phenylephrine hydrochloride is an α-1 adrenergic receptor agonist.

5 Warnings and Precautions (5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS)
  • Severe bradycardia and decreased cardiac output  ( 5.2)
  • Extravasation: during intravenous administration may cause necrosis or sloughing of tissue ( 5.4)
  • Concomitant use with oxytocic drugs: pressor effect of sympathomimetic pressor amines is potentiated ( 5.5)
  • Allergic-type reactions: Sulfite ( 5.6)
2 Dosage and Administration (2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION)

Dilute before administration. ( 2.1)

Dosing for Perioperative Hypotension

  • Intravenous bolus administration: 50 mcg to 250 mcg ( 2.4)
  • Intravenous continuous infusion: 0.5 mcg/kg/minute to 1.4 mcg/kg/minute titrated to effect ( 2.4)

Dosing for Patients with Vasodilatory Shock

  • Intravenous continuous infusion: 0.5 mcg/kg/minute to 6 mcg/kg/minute titrated to effect ( 2.5)
3 Dosage Forms and Strengths (3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS)

Injection: 10 mg/mL phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is supplied as a 1 mL single-dose vial (10 mg of phenylephrine hydrochloride per vial).

17 Patient Counseling Information (17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION)

Inform patients, families, or caregivers that the primary side effect of phenylephrine is hypertension and rarely, hypertensive crisis. Patients may experience bradycardia (slow heart rate), which in some cases may produce heart block or other cardiac arrhythmias, extra ventricular beats, myocardial ischemia in patients with underlying cardiac disease, and pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) or rales. Common, less serious symptoms include the following:

  • chest pain
  • skin or tissue damage if the drug leaks out of the venous catheter into the surrounding tissue
  • headache, nervousness, tremor, numbness/tingling (paresthesias) in hands or feet
  • nausea, vomiting
  • excitability, dizziness, sweating, flushing


Distributed by:

AuroMedics Pharma LLC

279 Princeton-Hightstown Rd.

E. Windsor, NJ 08520



Manufactured by:

Aurobindo Pharma Limited

Hyderabad - 500038

India

5.4 Skin and Subcutaneous Necrosis

Extravasation of phenylephrine can cause necrosis or sloughing of tissue.

16 How Supplied/storage and Handling (16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING)

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection, USP is a clear, colorless, aqueous solution and is supplied as follows:



10 mg per mL:



    1 mL Single-Dose Vials

    packaged in a carton of 25                                                        NDC 55150-300-25



Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. Keep covered in carton until time of use. For single-dose only. The diluted solution should not be held for more than 4 hours at room temperature or for more than 24 hours under refrigerated conditions. Discard any unused portion.



The vial stoppers are not made with natural rubber latex.

2.4 Dosing for Perioperative Setting

In adult patients undergoing surgical procedures with either neuraxial anesthesia or general anesthesia:

  • 50 mcg to 250 mcg by intravenous bolus administration. The most frequently reported initial bolus dose is 50 mcg or 100 mcg.
  • 0.5 mcg/kg/min to 1.4 mcg/kg/min by intravenous continuous infusion, titrated to blood pressure goal.
5.7 Peripheral and Visceral Ischemia

Phenylephrine hydrochloride can cause excessive peripheral and visceral vasoconstriction and ischemia to vital organs, particularly in patients with extensive peripheral vascular disease.

2.1 General Administration Instructions

Phenylephrine hydrochloride injection must be diluted before administration as bolus intravenous infusion or continuous intravenous infusion.



Inspect the solution for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. The diluted solution should not be held for more than 4 hours at room temperature or for more than 24 hours under refrigerated conditions. Discard any unused portion.



During phenylephrine hydrochloride injection administration:

  • Correct intravascular volume depletion.
  • Correct acidosis. Acidosis may reduce the effectiveness of phenylephrine.
5.3 Risk in Patients With Autonomic Dysfunction (5.3 Risk in Patients with Autonomic Dysfunction)

The pressor response to adrenergic drugs, including phenylephrine, can be increased in patients with autonomic dysfunction, as may occur with spinal cord injuries.

2.5 Dosing for Septic Or Other Vasodilatory Shock (2.5 Dosing for Septic or Other Vasodilatory Shock)

In adult patients with septic or other vasodilatory shock:

  • No bolus.
  • 0.5 mcg/kg/min to 6 mcg/kg/min by intravenous continuous infusion, titrated to blood pressure goal. Doses above 6 mcg/kg/min do not show significant incremental increase in blood pressure.
5.5 Pressor Effect With Concomitant Oxytocic Drugs (5.5 Pressor Effect with Concomitant Oxytocic Drugs)

Oxytocic drugs potentiate the pressor effect of sympathomimetic pressor amines including phenylephrine hydrochloride [see Drug Interactions (7.1)] , with the potential for hemorrhagic stroke.

Package Label Principal Display Panel Vial Label (PACKAGE LABEL-PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - VIAL LABEL)





Phenylephrine



HCl Injection, USP



10 mg per vial



For Intravenous Use



Dilute Before Use



1 mL Single-Dose Vial



Package Label Principal Display Panel Outer Package (PACKAGE LABEL-PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - OUTER PACKAGE)

NDC 71872-7267-1

Rx only



Phenylephrine



HCl Injection, USP



10 mg per vial



For Intravenous Use



Dilute Before Use



DISCARD UNUSED PORTION



Sterile

1 x 1 mL Single-Dose Vial





2.3 Preparing A Solution for Continuous Intravenous Infusion (2.3 Preparing a Solution for Continuous Intravenous Infusion)

For continuous intravenous infusion, withdraw 10 mg (1 mL of 10 mg/mL concentration) of phenylephrine hydrochloride injection and add to 500 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (providing a final concentration of 20 mcg/mL).

2.2 Preparing A 100 Mcg/ml Solution for Bolus Intravenous Administration (2.2 Preparing a 100 mcg/mL Solution for Bolus Intravenous Administration)

For bolus intravenous administration, withdraw 10 mg (1 mL of a 10 mg/mL concentration) of phenylephrine hydrochloride injection and dilute with 99 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection, USP or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP. This will yield a final concentration of 100 mcg/mL. Withdraw an appropriate dose from the 100 mcg/mL solution prior to bolus intravenous administration.

5.1 Exacerbation of Angina, Heart Failure, Or Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (5.1 Exacerbation of Angina, Heart Failure, or Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension)

Because of its pressor effects, phenylephrine hydrochloride can precipitate angina in patients with severe arteriosclerosis or history of angina, exacerbate underlying heart failure, and increase pulmonary arterial pressure.


Advanced Ingredient Data


Raw Label Data

All Sections (JSON)